Perspectives Photo School

Perspectives Photo School offers photography through year-round photography classes, youth summer photography camps, individual and small group photography lessons, and workshops and classes. Students take part in daily lessons to develop technical skills using a DSLR or mirrorless camera, work on editing photographs, learn to manipulate light in the studio or outdoors, and use creative prompts and writing exercises to build a personal photography project and portfolio. The program also includes a mentorship program for high school students that focuses on developing a personal photography voice and style.

• Ages: 13–18 years old
• Schedule: Youth summer camps run Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Perspectives Photo School offers year-round classes for adults and teens, including youth summer camps that visit a variety of locations throughout the week for hands-on learning in the field and travel to some of the Bay Area’s most notable locations for photography. Instruction and feedback come from a professional photographer through individual and small group lessons that are completely customizable, as well as a Mentorship Program for High School Students. The program integrates multiple disciplines such as environmental consciousness and social inclusivity and includes special collaborations with local organizations. Perspectives Photo School is led by Founder/Director Tara Layman, who received her Master of Fine Arts in Photography in 2012 and has been teaching photography classes since 2015. The mission of Perspectives is to help individuals of all origins, all experience levels, and all gender expressions explore the world through photography, with a focus on storytelling, self-expression, fostering connections, enhancing technical skills, developing a unique visual voice, and building confidence to share personal perspectives within a vibrant and inclusive community.

Last updated June 19, 2026.