ISYSM FAQ

What is ISYSM?

I See You See Me (ISYSM) is a multi-week, hybrid photography program designed for folks who identify at the intersection of LGBTQ+ & chronic illness, disability, or neurodivergence. We provide in-person and Online workshops in a small cohort of 8-10 participants from a chosen region. We provide all materials (35m cameras, film, film processing, scanning) for participants to create a body of work using their lived experience as material, and then create individualized Online galleries to host projects. We prioritize folks who do not have access to traditional photography education.

I’m interested in ISYSM. How do I participate?

ISYSM is open to folks 18 and older who live at the intersections of disability, chronic illness, neurodivergence, and LGBTQ+ and/or nonbinary identity. If this sounds like you, look for the Open Call button in the top navigation. If you don’t see one, stay tuned for future opportunities. Due to the nature of receiving many applications, only a small percentage will be invited into the program.

What if if I’m not an artist?

Only you get to decide that. Whether or not you consider yourself an artist, the program offers space to explore creativity and self-expression.

What if I’ve never touched a camera before?

Experience with film or digital photography is helpful but not required. riel and Bianca will guide you through everything you need to participate.

What does collaboration look like in ISYSM?

Through formal collaborative portrait sessions, riel meets with each participant in a space of their choosing. Participants collaborate on location, composition, and mood. riel helps realize your vision and then hands off the cable release, allowing you to create collaborative self-portraits grounded in agency and meaning.

Do I have to participate in all of the meetings and the collaborative portrait session?

We understand that life happens. However, participants should prioritize attending workshops, share sessions, and the collaborative portrait session.

How long are sessions?

Sessions run 4–12 weeks depending on the chapter. The Iowa City chapter is approximately 7 weeks, while Portland, Maine runs about 4 weeks. Meetings occur bi-weekly in a hybrid format.

Are sessions Online or in person?

ISYSM is hybrid. We meet once per week in person and once online. Optional in-person or virtual office hours with riel are also available.

In what ways is ISYSM accessible?

• We offer all materials required to make images (35mm cameras, film, the cost of film processing/scaning)

• We hold Online meetings with live captions available. If you need ASL interpretation or other accommodations, please indicate this in your application or notify us as soon as possible.

• We offer modest stipends to help cover the cost of travel or extra materials you may need

• We publish work Online and hold exhibitions when possible

• We use accessiBe, the round icon you can find at the bottom right of the screen, which turns our website into more navigable interface

How can I get in touch with you?

Send us an email at contact@begincollective.com and we will do our best to get back to you within 1-3 business days.

How is Begin Collective funded?

Begin Collective is run by Bianca and riel, who work full-time as a social worker and educator. We rely on grants, sponsorships, donations, and personal contributions to sustain the program. We do not profit from running ISYSM — we do it because we believe in it. If you’re interested in supporting the work, we’d love to hear from you.