About Us

‍We believe in the power of photography. But even more than that, we believe in the potential of youth. 

Youth in Focus was founded in 1994 by Walter Bodle, who believed every young person deserves a creative outlet—and a chance to be seen and heard. Washington State boasts one of the most vibrant arts economies in the country, yet state arts funding falls below the national average, and access remains deeply unequal. Too many students—especially those most impacted by systemic inequities—are left out of arts education altogether.

Youth in Focus is here to change that. 

As Seattle’s only photography-based youth development organization, we provide free photography classes and mentorship to over 450 middle and high school students each year. We create a safe, inclusive community where teens can explore their creativity, develop technical skills, and gain the confidence to share their stories—and shape their futures. 

2024 Student Snapshot: 

• 93% attended for free or at a reduced cost 

• 70% were students of color 

• Over 50% qualified for free/reduced-price lunch 

• 30% lived with a single parent or in other living arrangements 

• 47% identified as LGBTQIA+ 

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In a state rich in creativity but short on access, we’re working to ensure the arts are not a privilege, but a right.