Behind every photo is a different photographer, each bringing their own perspective, experiences, and challenges to the image they create. For female and non-binary photographers, those experiences can be shaped by unique challenges both behind the camera and within the wider photography community.

Seniors Alex Antoniono and Kate Hildebrand created a new organization at Penn State to change that.

Penn State’s Women in Photojournalism Club centers on creating a safe space for students to build community, share experiences, and support one another in a field that is generally male-dominated.

The idea grew out of shared experiences among female and non-binary student photographers. They noticed that, especially during sports games, women and non-binary photographers often struggled to find the same sense of community that male photographers had on the sidelines.

“I feel like it’s not like that for us at Penn State,” Hildebrand said when speaking about her experience as a female sports photographer. “We just wanted to create a better community where you just don’t feel like you’re alone.”

The club was created to give photographers of all experience levels a place to connect, learn, and grow. Members can hear stories from a wide range of speakers, including alumni and professional photographers. Younger members will also have the chance to gain a mentor through the club.

The organization hopes to offer more than just photography resources. Antoniono and Hildebrand want to create a network where students can openly talk about the challenges they face in the field and know they have a supportive group in their corner.

“There’s been a variety of shared experiences that a lot of female photographers have when we’re out in the field, especially at sporting events. We thought it would be cool to have a space where we can talk, build a community, and build confidence with each other,” Antoniono said.

For freshman and treasurer Hadley Milhomme, joining the club was a way to share her experiences and feel supported while doing something she loves.

“I felt very, very motivated by the idea,” Milhomme said. “It’s just something to grow your artistry and grow connections.”

With the club’s first meeting coming up on Wednesday, September 16, Antoniono, Hildebrand, and Milhomme are focused on building and growing a community that will continue to grow after they graduate. 

Their shared goal reflects the foundation of the Women in Photojournalism Club, which centers on being a welcoming and inclusive community.

“Women in Photojournalism strives to create a safe, welcoming community of female-identifying and nonbinary students across all photography niches and experience levels,” the club’s mission statement reads. “With a focus on mentorship and community building, we prepare our members to succeed professionally and personally in a male-dominated field.”

The club will have a booth at the Bellisario College Involvement Fair this Wednesday, September 9, for those interested in hearing more.

The Women in Photojournalism Instagram also contains important information.

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