Discover the art of storytelling through a camera lens at USF's Middle School Photography Camp! Located on the USF Tampa Campus, this hands-on camp introduces aspiring photographers to essential skills like framing, composition, lighting, and editing, all while exploring the fundamentals of photography in a fun and creative setting.
Guided by experienced instructors, campers will learn to capture unique perspectives using cell phones, Instax cameras, or their own digital cameras. Each day brings new projects across USF's vibrant campus, and the camp culminates in a photobook to showcase their best work. No experience needed—just bring your curiosity and creativity!
USF Photography Camp Details
Camp Director: Erika Schnur
Location: USF Tampa
Grade Levels: Entering 6th - 8th
Dates: June 16th - 20th, 2025
Time: 9:00AM - 4:00PM
Cost: $495
What to Expect
Framing the Shot: Photography Composition Essentials
Campers will learn to structure a photograph using techniques like the rule of thirds, leading lines, and perspective. By understanding these principles, they’ll compose images that draw in the viewer, arranging elements in balanced, creative ways that enhance the story of each shot.
Lights, Camera, Creativity: Studio Photography Magic
Using props, backdrops, and angles to enhance their photos, campers will experiment with studio photography. They’ll explore how natural and artificial lighting affects mood and clarity, learning techniques to adjust exposure settings. By experimenting with different lighting conditions, campers will create unique effects that bring their images to life.
Storytelling Through the Lens: Crafting Powerful Images
Campers will learn to use photography as a powerful storytelling tool, focusing on creating narratives with their images. They’ll practice capturing moments that convey emotions, ideas, or themes, developing the ability to think critically about what each image communicates and how it contributes to a visual story.
Edit & Showcase: Creating Your Personal Photobook
Basic editing techniques will be taught using accessible software to enhance their photos. They’ll adjust color, contrast, and sharpness for a polished final product. This includes preparing for a personalized photobook, where they’ll choose and refine their best work to showcase and take home at the end of camp.
Unlock your creativity at our photography camp, where campers will dive into the art of visual storytelling! Through hands-on activities, they’ll learn essential techniques for composing captivating images, using props and lighting to enhance their shots while developing their unique photographic style.
As they progress, campers will gain valuable editing skills with accessible software to refine their images and prepare a personalized photobook. This keepsake will showcase their best work, capturing memories and skills learned throughout the camp. Join us for a fun-filled experience that inspires young photographers to see the world through a new lens!
Useful Information
When does registration open for the USF Photography Camp?
Registration for all 2025 summer camps will open on February 1, 2025.
What is the capacity of the USF Photography Camp?
Each session of the USF Photography Camp has a capacity of 30.
What is the refund/cancelaltion policy?
USF reserves the right to cancel camps, in which case registration fees are fully refunded. If it becomes necessary for USF to cancel, postpone or combine camps, or change a camp location, you will be notified by email or phone. It is important that we have your current contact information. If a camp is cancelled, you will receive a full refund. If a registration is received after the enrollment limit has been reached, a full refund will be issued.
If you need to cancel a camp registration, please email USF Youth Experiences. If the cancellation occurs 10 days prior to camp start date a full refund will be received with the exception of administration fees. However, if the cancellation is received within 10 business days of the camp start date, no refund will be given. No refunds will be issued after the start date of the camp.
Who are the USF Faculty/Staff leading the USF Photography Camp?
This camp is led by Erika Schnur, an artist and teacher based in Tampa who graduated from the University of South Florida with a BFA in Studio Art. Her work centers on making art accessible and inspiring creativity in students, encouraging them to explore and express their unique perspectives through photography.
Where is the USF Photography Camp located?
The USF Photography Camp will be held at the USF Tampa campus. We are in the process of finalizing the exact location and will update you as soon as it's confirmed.
After registering for the USF Photography Camp, when will I start receiving logistical details inclduing pick-up and drop-off times?
You will receive several reminder emails leading up to the camp start date. Emails will be sent 60, 30, 14, 7, and 1 day prior, each containing important information to ensure a successful experience at the USF Photography Camp.
Take a look at photos from last year's USF Photography Camp
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