Help Alex Pursue a Life-Changing Photo Internship in NYC!

Hi there! My name is Alex. I'm a young visual storyteller from Norfolk County, Ontario, Canada. During my early teenage years, photography became my way of expressing myself while I struggled deeply with my mental health. Storytelling through images helped me connect with others and allowed me to grow personally. I quickly realized that being true to who I am and documenting my life through art could also help others. More than ten years later, photography still supports my mental well-being.

When I was 19, I was accepted into my dream program, the Honours Bachelor of Photography at Sheridan College. Despite many obstacles, I was determined to make that dream a reality. I managed to graduate, even though it meant working four jobs simultaneously during my full-time studies just to afford to eat. A year after graduation, COVID-19 hit, and like many others, I felt completely lost. I stopped picking up my camera and ended up working in a job unrelated to my passions, trapped in survival mode for far too long. I watched time slip away, unhappy with where I was mentally, physically, and in my career.

Over the past year, things have started to turn around. I began photographing more, forming meaningful connections, and managing to pay my bills. Even though I could sense a shift within myself and my work, I still lacked confidence. When I held a camera, I felt unsure and hesitant to take action with my art.

Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in Chris Buck’s photography workshop, “The Surprising Portrait.” Walking into that room, I was terrified and unsure of who I was. But I left feeling confident again, knowing I have stories to tell—my stories.

As I was saying my goodbyes, Chris Buck asked me if I would intern for him in NYC for four months starting this September. I was overwhelmed with disbelief and a rush of emotions. Then anxiety set in: how could I make this happen financially? I need enough money to live in NYC for four months, but I currently don’t have those resources. The thought that financial constraints might prevent me from living this dream broke my heart.

Living in NYC is crucial for my career right now. The photo industry is thriving there, and this is a critical time for me to meet industry professionals—creative directors, photo editors, and other photographers—who could help make my career a reality.

That’s why I’m reaching out to you. I need your support. Book a photoshoot with me, but if a photoshoot isn't something you're interested in at the moment, that’s perfectly okay! If you’re still willing to help, any donation would be greatly appreciated. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I hope to make it a reality with your support.