Senior Photo League

The BDC Senior Photo League


Join the BDC Senior Photo League, a free photography workshop for older adults, where participants learn to capture and share their stories.

APPLICATIONS ARE OPEN

English sessions: 
Wednesdays, 10 AM – 12 PM
April 15, 2026 – June 3, 2026
Apply here

Spanish sessions: 
Thursdays, 10 AM – 12 PM
April 16, 2026 – June 4, 2026
Apply here

Empowering Bronx seniors to tell their stories through photography, the BDC Senior Photo League (SPL) is a free, 8-week program offered in the winter and fall for older adults in the Bronx. 

Since 2017, the Bronx Documentary Center has provided weekly instruction, assignments, and field trips to participants aged 50+, fostering technical photography skills, artistic growth, and community pride. Through this supportive and creative environment, students have developed their artistic visions, documented their neighborhoods, and connected with fellow participants. SPL alumni have showcased their work in exhibitions, celebrating the vibrant history and culture of the Bronx.

If you’re interested in joining the BDC Senior Photo League, please email us at info@bronxdoc.org.

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The Bronx Documentary Center’s Senior Photo League is made possible with leading support from the Samuels Foundation.

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 Tania Matisse Foundation, Peck Foundation, Scherman Foundation, and the Van Agtmael Fund. Special thanks to our corporate sponsors Adobe, BronxCare Health System, Fujifilm, and Montefiore Health System.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to join the Senior Photo League?

The program is open to Bronx residents aged 55+ and up who are interested in learning photography and storytelling.

Is there a cost to participate in the program?

No, the Senior Photo League is a free program for all participants.

What will I learn in the program?

Participants receive weekly instruction in technical photography skills, complete assignments, guided tours to BDC exhibitions, as well as access to public programs offered at the BDC. The program also fosters artistic growth and encourages participants to tell their personal stories through photography.

Do I need any prior photography experience?

No prior experience is necessary! The program is designed for seniors of all skill levels, from beginners to those with some photography background.

What kind of equipment is provided?

Cameras and other necessary equipment are provided to participants at no cost during the program. Some classes may also utilize participants’ cell phones.

What kinds of activities are included in the program?

• Weekly photography lessons
• Assignments to document personal stories and neighborhoods
• Private exhibition tours at the BDC
• Collaborative activities with fellow participants
• Opportunities to exhibit your work in public exhibitions

How long does the program run?

The program typically runs for seven weekly sessions, offered in both the winter and fall. Exact schedules may vary depending on the specific program cycle.

Will I have an opportunity to showcase my work?

Yes! SPL participants have the opportunity to showcase their photography in exhibitions held during the Winter/Spring and Fall, celebrating the vibrant history and culture of the Bronx.