You can use Instagram, Hipstamatic or any of the other popular iPhone apps to get that retro photo look. OR, you can do what 16 year old Keelan Sunglao-Valdez did: get out your Holga and go shoot with film! You can use Instagram, Hipstamatic or any of the other popular iPhone apps to get that retro photo look. OR, you can do what 16 year old Keelan Sunglao-Valdez did: get out your Holga and go shoot with film!

Keelan is a first-year student in Cameraworks’ First Exposures program and used 120mm film to take the photos featured on this page around his home in the East Bay. Some of his work was recently presented at the Open Show and he also will be speaking at the SF Camerawork First Exposures benefit on April 28 2011.

First Exposures provides free weekly photography classes for underserved youth aged 11-18.

In the First Exposures mentoring program, each student is matched one-to-one with a photographer who serves as a positive adult role model and provides individualized guidance and support. Since 1993 hundreds of students have participated in this program and over 90% of these students has gone on to pursue a college education.

Because of our demonstrated history of success, First Exposures is recognized by the State of California as a model program for underserved youth. In the face of limited education and economic opportunities for San Francisco youth, we have expanded the First Exposures experience beyond our weekly classes to encompass community outreach programs, after-school programs, and summer courses throughout the City.

First Exposures provides a creative outlet for students to express themselves in a safe and supportive environment, and encourages them to become articulate, confident, and responsible young adults. In 2008 First Exposures expanded its program by introducing a digital photography class in order to serve more youth.

Dickerman Prints is proud to provide complimentary film processing and scanning for the First Exposures program.