Simple ways a photo enthusiast can give back

Guest blogger Jamie Carayiannis is an intern with the Case Foundation.

As a student majoring in photography and as someone who has become increasingly involved in student activism, one could say that I’m always in search of great ways to combine the two interests.

This summer I’ve been given the wonderful opportunity to intern at the Case Foundation, where I’ve discovered the infinite venues and social media tools one can use to connect personal interests with philanthropy. I’ve found that there are numerous ways to promote social good through photography. Here are just a few simple ways photo enthusiasts can give back:

• Now that you’ve upgraded to the latest SLR, do you have a 35mm camera that’s beginning to collect dust? Rather than trying to sell your camera or throw it out (because what good is a camera if it’s stuck in a landfill?!) why not donate it to those who could really use it? Ask the local schools in your area if they’re in need of any cameras for their art programs! Check out sites like iLoveSchools.com or DonorsChoose.org to find a school near you that would love to make use of your old photo equipment!
• Don’t have any old photo equipment to give? Then, donate your time and expertise! Sites like Volunteermatch, Idealist, and United We Serve allow you to search for local arts-related volunteer opportunities.

If you’re looking for a great organization to support and/or get involved with, check out some of these organizations that are really making a difference:

• Critical Exposure: In an effort to promote equity among public schools, Critical Exposure provides students with the tools they need to photograph the conditions of their schools and advocate for improvements.
• The Kid Camera Project: This project enables New Orleans youth affected by Hurricane Katrina to express themselves and share their stories through photography, creative writing and other mixed media.
• PhotoVoice: As an international organization, PhotoVoice initiates photography projects across the globe to empower oppressed populations and groups.

Don’t forget that you’re capable of promoting social good through your photographic work as well! Collective Lens is a space for photographers to post images that support social change. Share photographs with others and raise awareness about a cause that’s important to you!