Frequently Asked Questions
Photo Academy
How can I join the AbleVoices Photo Academy?
The AbleVoices Academy in-person program runs Fall and Spring semesters. To participate, the photographer must simultaneously be registered for the in-person Fall/Spring Photography Club. Registration opens in July and the program begins in September and ends in May..
I registered for the Fall/Spring in-person Photography Club. How is the Photo Academy different from Photography Club?
The AbleVoices Photography Club focuses on the self-expressive, creative, and social aspects of photography. There are 9 outings, 9 PHun-Friday sessions and social events offered during the Fall/Spring Photography Club.
The Photo Academy focuses on work-based learning opportunities such as selling photos at local retailers, assisting professional photographers on special projects, doing event photography for community organizations and so much more! The Photo Academy also includes an additional 9 PHun-Friday sessions (monthly), 2 one-on-one sessions with an experienced photographer, and participation in exhibits and other opportunities to share their photography with others.
Please read the information on the Photo Academy page to learn more.
What is the registration fee used for?
Program registration fees allow us to pay staff to:
Plan and lead all in-studio sessions (such as 9 PHun Fridays, 1:1 photo sessions with photographers, PHotoSLAM!, Head-shot-athon).
Plan and lead all work-based sessions (such as the CHS golf tournament, High Hopes school portraits, WCS T2 head shots).
Plan and execute (create, deliver, pick up) exhibits (such as Frist Art Museum, Under One Roof at the GJCC, Williamson Co. Archives, Vanderbilt University and more!).
Coordinate volunteers and purchase supplies.
Plan for, transport inventory to markets and fairs and retail spaces, and train photographers in sales skills.
Contact community members for more work-based opportunities and retail space print sales.
Program registration fees also allow us to purchase:
Printing supplies (ink and paper)
Exhibit materials (mats, frames, signage and hanging supplies)
Purchase gas and service on our 15-passenger ADA bus
AbleVoices golf shirts for all photographers to wear during work-based sessions
AbleVoices portfolio for photographer to showcase their work to share with others
4. How much is the Photo Academy registration fee?
The Photo Academy registration fee is $195 for the 9 month program. The actual cost of the program is much higher. To make the program affordable for
photographers and families, we supplement the registration by seeking donations and sponsorship funds and writing grants.
5. Is it true that Photo Academy photographers can get paid?
Yes, Photo Academy photographers have opportunities to earn money. Photographers receive 80% of large prints sold at markets/festivals, retail spaces, and online sales.
And if the photographers assist or photograph a project or event where AbleVoices gets paid, the photographer gets paid as well.
6. Have other questions?
Email info@ablevoices.org