Why I Started Youth Lens
Hi! My name is Tim Chen, and I am the founder of the Youth Lens Initiative. I got into photography at the end of middle school, when I taught myself the basics of camera settings, composition, and editing software. I fell in love with photography because it gave me an outlet to express myself and communicate experiences that were difficult to put into words.
Having mentors had a significant impact on my photography journey. They shared not only their perspective but also their mistakes, so I wouldn't have to make the same ones. This taught me the importance of having a mentor, especially in creative fields where guidance and encouragement matter.
It came to my attention that not everyone has the same access to photography or a creative career. Especially in under-resourced neighborhoods, kids lack access to cameras or mentors. That's why I developed the Youth Lens Initiative—to give students the creative outlet and mentorship I was fortunate to have.
