NeON Photography

NeON Photography: Ignite Creativity, Capture Opportunity

NeON Photography is a dynamic creative arts initiative launched by the New York City Department of Probation’s Neighborhood Opportunity Network (NeON). We empower individuals on probation and from underserved communities across seven NYC neighborhoods by providing hands-on, professional photography training.

Program Highlights:

Earn While You Learn: Get paid as you master photography skills
Open the Door: No experience required—anyone 18 or older can apply
Build Expertise: Gain real-world experience through expert-led training
Elevate Your Career: Showcase your work at major events like NYPD’s National Night Out Against Crime, Photoville Youth Artist Exchange, New York Fashion Week, and NYC Service Youth Summit

Advance Your Career

Our alumni don’t just find jobs—they lead. Many graduates launch photography careers and return as mentors and teaching assistants, inspiring and uplifting others in their communities.

Program Partners

Supported by Young Men's Initiative, Young Men’s Initiative, NYC Opportunity, Carnegie Hall, NYC Department of Probation, and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Ready to take the next step? Join NeON Photography and transform your future—one shot at a time.

Registration is now open for the Spring 2026 NeON Photography Program

Program Details
Program Dates: April 6 – June 26, 2026

Registration Period: March 6 – March 31

Acceptance Notifications: April 1 by 4 PM

Final Exhibition: June 11 – 12

Class Schedule
Monday – Brooklyn: 345 Adams St | 2–4 PM

Tuesday – Staten Island: 340 Bay St | 4–6 PM

Wednesday – Queens: 162‑24 Jamaica Ave | 2–4 PM

Thursday – Bronx: 198 E 161st St | 2–4 PM

Friday – Harlem: 127 W 127th St | 2–4 PM

Who Can Apply
NYC residents 18 years or older

Able to attend all 12 weeks of the program

All skill levels welcome, including beginners

Application Form: https://forms.office.com/g/vkTyM0ih4E

Innovative Curriculum: Learn. Create. Excel.

We combine 50% technical training with 50% practical application through projects, photo walks, and event photography.

Program Benefits: Advance. Achieve. Connect.

Unlock Self-Expression: Use your camera as your voice
Develop Professional Skills: Build a portfolio you can be proud of
Earn While You Learn: Get paid for your creativity
Build Your Network: Join a supportive, inspiring community
Shine in the Spotlight: Exhibit your work at community events

Snap into Opportunity: Join NeON Photography!

Mailing List Here

Past Events

NeON Photography celebrated NYC’s vibrant spirit in July 2025 by returning its gallery to Williamsburg, Brooklyn, featuring 48 original photos by emerging photographers and welcoming 31 guests over three days. The exhibition kicked off with a free opening event on July 1 and invited the public daily from July 2–4, showcasing how underserved youth expressed creativity, broke barriers, and amplified their voices through photography.

NeON Photography proudly presented the Fall ’24 Exhibition, Reflections of Life, from December 5–7, 2024, showcasing 50 stunning photos by students, alumni, instructors, and staff. The event came alive with soulful music by Piano Mike, a vibrant community atmosphere, and a moving video recap by Elmir Maharramov that captured the celebration’s spirit.

Stay connected and explore the vibrant world of NeON Photography—discover inspiring galleries, upcoming events, and more by visiting our site or reaching out anytime.

Explore Our Photos Gallery: https://neonphotography.smugmug.com/
Contact us: neon.photographers@gmail.com

Photo and video Release forms:

Under 18 years, Apply here
18 years and older, Apply here

Stay inspired and take action with NeON Photography today!