YPA Internship Program
YPA supports the future careers of young photographers through international internship programs in the photo community. The goal of the program is to provide a student with the skills they need to succeed at the professional level once they graduate.
Internships often provide a student’s first professional experience in the business of photography. A supportive and successful internship rounds out artistic and academic skills learned in college, improves the student’s resume and industry connections and increases his or her ability to earn a living and stay in photography throughout their career. Internships are valuable but difficult to find. Today many leading corporations find interns through “pay for placement” programs, in which students pay to secure the internship and cover basic expenses.
YPA is committed to the growth and success of internships in the photo industry, to ensure that internship opportunities will be accessible to talented and dedicated students who can’t afford high intern placement fees. YPA's Intern Program facilitates this growth by encouraging and working with corporations, companies and individual photographers to develop unique intern programs, and to connect these employers with top student interns. Interns will be identified through all YPA programs and awards as well as participating colleges and partner organizations.
In 2009 YPA will work with industry leaders to offer unique internship opportunities to the applicants for YPA scholarships based on each student's availability, interest and experience.
By the end of 2009, plans to expand the program in the US and internationally will be announced with the launch of a pilot program beginning Summer 2010.
Internships provide companies of all sizes an opportunity to "give back" to the photo community, supporting the next generation of photographers and the future of the profession one intern at a time. The Alliance – seeking sponsors, media partners and mentors for the program – is looking to create a true partnership between all participants and welcomes any and all suggestions.
To learn more about this exciting initiative contact contact us.