LACP’s core programming and services include educational offerings, exhibitions, professional development opportunities and events. Each year, LACP offers hundreds of workshops and classes of all levels and genres, exhibits over 300 photographers in virtual and in person gallery exhibitions which are free and open to the public, and creates over $100,000 in jobs for working artists.

LACP serves thousands of recreational and professional photographic artists from diverse backgrounds. For LACP’s 1,300 members LACP offers special events, exhibition opportunities, and discounts. LACP hosts over 50 lectures, artist talks, panels, and networking events most of which are free to LACP membership and the general public.

For professional artists in particular, LACP provides the following support:

1) A work-study program where artists are professionally trained in different areas of pedagogy and programming, serving as course assistants, gallery attendants, event producers, marketing assistants, etc. This provides artists with invaluable experience in the day-to-day operations of an arts organization, the photographic world and the classroom. In return, work-study students are given credits which can be used to take classes at no additional cost;

2) Classes, workshops and webinars on professional development for emerging photographers. Topics include: portfolio development, how to approach galleries and museums, and how to write grants. LACP also hosts classes on creating and publishing photo books, as well as on business and marketing;

3) An annual portfolio review week where emerging photographers meet with curators, gallery owners, and publishers in order to receive guidance, critical feedback, as well as important career opportunities such as having their work published or included in exhibitions.

4) Scholarships designed to offset costs for participating in classes, professional development opportunities and open calls through The Sugarshack Fund.