The BDC Youth
Photo League
About the Program
The BDC Youth Photo League (YPL) is a free documentary photography and college success program for middle and high school students in the Bronx.
Through our afterschool program, students learn to use photography, writing, and research to explore social justice issues while preparing for college and future careers.
All classes take place in person at the Bronx Documentary Center Annex, located at 364 E. 151st Street, Bronx, NY.
Applications are currently closed.
The Program includes:
Études Architect App
- College prep support, including one-on-one counseling, financial aid workshops, and college tours
- Hands-on instruction in documentary photography
Études Newsletter
- Mentorship from internationally renowned photographers
- Field trips to major cultural institutions and media outlets
- National and international travel opportunities
YPL Publications:
BDC Focus
BDC Focus is a student-run newspaper created by the Bronx Documentary Center’s Youth Photo League. Produced by students, alumni, and teaching artists, the publication highlights underreported stories in the South Bronx through photography, reporting, and community journalism.
YPL Photobook
Through Our Eyes: Youth Photography at the Bronx Documentary Center, 2013–2023 is a photobook highlighting a decade of award-winning photographs by Youth Photo League students, documenting the Bronx through youth-driven storytelling.
Student Films
YPL students expand beyond still photography to create documentary films that explore stories from their communities. Through hands-on training in video production, interviewing, and editing, students develop visual narratives focused on underreported issues and personal experiences. Guided by professional filmmakers and journalists, they gain the skills to produce and share impactful stories that amplify their voices and the voices of their neighbors. Below are selected student films.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the age requirements to be a student?
You must be enrolled in grades 6–12.
Do I have to be enrolled in a specific school or live in the Bronx to be in the YPL?
Nope! We welcome students from all five boroughs, though preference is given to Bronx-based applicants. The only requirement is that you can travel to and from class each week.
How much does the program cost?
The BDC YPL is completely free for all enrolled students. We provide equipment, cover field trip transportation, and even offer pre-class snacks.
When and where are classes held?
In the summer, classes meet twice a week at varying times. During the school year, high school students meet twice a week after school, middle school students meet once a week, and optional open lab time is available on Saturdays. College success workshops for high schoolers take place on weeknights and Saturdays.
All classes are held at the Bronx Documentary Center Annex, 364 E. 151st St, Bronx, NY.
Do I need to have photography experience?
No experience needed! Our classes challenge students of all skill levels—from complete beginners to advanced photographers.
Do I need to have a camera?
Nope! The BDC provides all the equipment you’ll need during the program—analog and digital cameras, plus onsite access to laptops with the full Adobe Creative Suite.
If I was already in the BDC Youth Photo League do I need to apply again?
Although returning YPL students are given preference during the application process, you still need to apply!
What will I learn in the YPL?
You’ll learn how to tell powerful stories through documentary photography and video—building your camera skills while deepening your understanding of the world through research, interviews, and writing.
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The Bronx Documentary Center’s Youth Photo League is made possible through leading support by the Jean and Louis Dreyfus Foundation, H.T. Ewald Foundation, Fleishman Charitable Trust, Hillman Family Foundation, Joy of Giving Something, Leonian Foundation, Pinkerton Foundation, and Hyde and Watson Foundation; with corporate sponsorship by Fujifilm.
Additional support for the BDC is provided by the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs and the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature. Foundation support is provided by the Clif Family Foundation, Chris Hondros Fund, Four Friends Foundation, Ford Foundation, Jonathan Logan Family Foundation, Lawrence Foundation, Pierre and Tana Matisse Foundation, Peck Foundation, Scherman Foundation, and the Van Agtmael Fund. Special thanks to our additional corporate sponsors Adobe, BronxCare Health System, and Montefiore Health System.