PHOTOFUSION (Educational Trust)

RCN 1007491, London

Photofusion is a powerhouse of emerging talent, uplifting the next generation of visual storytellers. Founded in 1991 by a group of female photographers, Photofusion was established to challenge media stereotypes and expand the narratives being told through photography. Over the last 33 years we have nurtured generations of diverse creatives by providing essential free access to photography training, professional facilities, mentoring and exhibition opportunities. We are based in the heart of Brixton, one of South London’s most diverse and vibrant, yet disadvantaged boroughs, serving underrepresented young creatives and driving visible, inclusive change in the photography and visual arts industries. Our innovative training programmes empower countless young people, giving them confidence, opportunities for self-expression, and valuable employability skills through photography. See the video below of our Creators' Studio; a weekend outreach and engagement programme run year-round when funding permits:

Fund the Next Generation of Visual Storytellers by supporting Photofusion.

Breaking into the creative sector can feel impossible for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. 

Just 4% of the UK’s photography workforce comes from Global Majority backgrounds, and in Lambeth (where we are based), fewer young people progress into higher education or employment than the London or national average. 

Yet, the UK’s creative sector is booming, growing five times faster than other industries and contributing over £111 billion to the economy annually. 

With the support from one of our outreach programmes, aspiring young photographers can not only find their voice, but also contribute to changing the face of the industry.

The Creators’ Studio – A Lifeline for Creative Talent
Our rolling 6-month Creators’ Studio programme is a safe space for young people (16-25) to find their voice, tell their stories, and build a future in the creative industries.

We provide:

  • Professional Training: From studio lighting and camera operation to post-production (Lightroom, Capture One, Photoshop)
  • Career Development: Portfolio building, networking, and digital marketing skills
    Business Basics: Budgeting, invoicing, contracts, and tax guidance
  • Real-World Experience: Work placements, assistant roles, and mentorship from industry Paid Leaders
  • Employment: Paid work opportunities with local business, fully supported by Photofusion
  • Creative Community: A supportive peer network and access to Photofusion’s professional facilities

Real Impact, Real Stories
Alumni from our outreach and community programmes have gone on to work with major brands like Converse, Nike, the BBC, and Vogue.

Over 93% of the cohorts from the last 4 years have secured employment or higher education through the programme, proving that with the right support, young people can overcome barriers and thrive in a creative career. 

100% of participants also reported enhancements in transferable skills such as timekeeping, communication, and teamwork and 100% see Photofusion as a safe environment; somewhere secure to express themselves and their artistic visions.

Why We Need Your Support - now
Without your help, this vital work won’t be able to continue.

Government funding cuts, rising costs, and increasing competition for Trusts and Foundations’ support  (how, for example, The Creators’ Studio has been funded before), have placed Photofusion at a very real risk of closing our outreach programmes if we do not receive more financial support from people and companies who see the value in what we're doing everyday.

For many young people, our outreach programmes are more than a learning platform; they are turning points, a source of confidence, and a launchpad. It’s where they find their creative voice, their professional footing, and a sense of belonging to the photographic community. Without this lifeline, we all risk losing the next generation of diverse, powerful storytellers.

How You Can Help
Donate: Every contribution counts – from the cost of a camera lens to a day’s studio time.
Become a monthly supporter – Support our impact long-term
Share: Spread this Crowdfunder to friends, colleagues, and creative networks.
Partner: If you’re a company or brand, consider sponsoring a participant or project.

With your help, we can keep the doors of opportunity in the photography sector open to those who face the most barriers to participating in it. 

Don’t let their stories go untold due to lack of access to kit, contacts and relatable career mentors - all which Photofusion delivers in a safe, local, and community-orientated space. 

Donate Now – and fund the next generation of visual storytellers

Testimonies from some of the young people we have already supported at the earliest stage of their career:

"Photofusions’ Creators Studio gave me a real sense of motivation, inspiration, confidence and self-belief that was crucial to be where I am today as a photographer. I believe Photofusion is very important to the photographic community, as many people do not have access to these facilities due to financial reasons. Photofusion makes education, studio space and community accessible for everyone.” Creators’ Studio participant

“Without Photofusion, my practice would’ve prematurely ended due to the lack of affordable equipment available in London and the neglect of my black cultural identity within my primarily western university.” Creators’ Studio participant 

“The Creators’ Studio fast tracked me to learning about how to work in a team, how to work on jobs, also how to do stuff for yourself, I feel like’s it’s deffo changed the trajectory of everything for me. I got the opportunity to curate my own show, and the success was very amazing, and seeing that led me into figuring out I really want a career for myself in curation, and going head deep into the arts world” Creators’ Studio participant 

The Small Print
This crowdfunder is being held in aid of Photofusion Educational Trust, charity no. 1007491, and the money raised will support the organisation’s general charitable activities.


Charity Projects


Latest

Rory Sheridan – £10 + an est. £2.50 in Gift Aid

3rd April 2025  

Patrick Willcocks – £10 + an est. £2.50 in Gift Aid

12th March 2025  

Anonymous – £300 + an est. £75.00 in Gift Aid

7th January 2025  

Nicholas Mackey – £50 + an est. £12.50 in Gift Aid

As a longstanding photographer, I thank my lucky stars to have discovered Photofusion two years ago and I've been a devoted member ever since. I'm thrilled and honoured to lend my support to a wonderfully friendly group of professionals who make the art and science of photography available to all. Long live Photofusion!

29th December 2024  

markcator – £250 + an est. £62.50 in Gift Aid

15th November 2024  

Zack Mennell – £100 + an est. £25.00 in Gift Aid

4th October 2024  

BRYEN & LANGLEY LTD – £800 + an est. £200.00 in Gift Aid

20th September 2024  

Jillian Edelstein – £10 + an est. £2.50 in Gift Aid

16th June 2024  

Anonymous – £50 + an est. £12.50 in Gift Aid

7th June 2024  

Matt Hervey – £200 + an est. £50.00 in Gift Aid

1st June 2024  

Stephan Schmid – £40 + an est. £10.00 in Gift Aid

21st May 2024  

ROSIE BARNES – £40 + an est. £10.00 in Gift Aid

Thank you Photofusion! You're a wonderful organisation. Wishing you luck with this Crowdfunder! Rx

13th May 2024  

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