A photo walk and roll through downtown GR.
Viewfinder is an accessible photography experience where participants with disabilities explore downtown Grand Rapids on guided "walk and roll" routes — learning creative photography techniques tailored to all abilities, then celebrating their work at a free public showcase.
What is Viewfinder
- 50 participants invited across two sessions
- Two photographers leading each session — Kellie & Kara Hopelynd Co-Founders
- Completely free for all participants
- Ends with a public showcase and optional art auction
- Physical, mental, and emotional disabilities all welcome
Registration
Don't miss your spot.
We're inviting 50 individuals to join us for Viewfinder on July 20th. Spots are limited and will fill quickly. Sign up to be notified the moment registration opens so you don't miss your chance to participate.
- 50 participants invited across two sessions
- Accessibility information and session details
- Showcase invitation for family and supporters
times available
2
No cost to attend
Free
Spots available
50
How the day unfolds.
Schedule · July 20, 2026
What each session looks like
SUBMIT
04
Submit one favorite photo from the day to be featured in the showcase.
Creative prompts
03
experimentation and storytelling
Guided walk & shoot
02
Explore downtown corridors and practice photography skills
Welcome & orientation
01
Accessibility resources, introductions, adaptive gear overview.
End of week · Public showcase
Thursday evening — free public photo exhibition
A curated gallery of participant photos displayed in a public downtown venue with an open-to-the-public reception. Community members are invited to celebrate the artists and their work — with the option to auction pieces for each artist. All free and open to the public.
Location: To be announced soon
Downtown Grand Rapids.
Participants will explore downtown sidewalks and public spaces along accessible "walk and roll" routes — photographing the city's gorgeous architecture, the Grand River, and the vibrant street life of downtown GR.
Where we're going
Wheelchair accessible
routes throughout
Sensory-friendly
pacing and environment
Adaptive photography tools
tripod mounts, grip aids available
Instructors trained
in disability-inclusive instruction
Techniques taught:
framing, angles, light & shadow, adaptive approaches
Why this matters
Photography for everyone.
Builds confidence, community belonging, and creative voice for every participant regardless of ability.
Photography is a universal form of creative expression — yet many individuals with disabilities face barriers in accessing arts education and community art experiences. Viewfinder removes those barriers entirely.
Fosters creative expression
01
Brings people together in movement, creativity, and shared learning throughout Grand Rapids public spaces.
Activates downtown GR
02
The final showcase invites the whole community to engage with the art — residents, businesses, and visitors welcome.
Celebrates artists publicly
03
Made possible with support from.
Our partners
Partnering to bring accessible arts activation to downtown public spaces and enhance the cultural vibrancy of Grand Rapids.
Community partner
Supporting Viewfinder participants with professional print lab services so every artist can see their work come to life.
Lab partner
We're looking for somewhere downtown Grand Rapids to host our reception for viewing one images from 50 participants and be open to the public
Venue
RECEPTION HOST
WE'RE LOOKING FOR THE FOLLOWING SPONSORSHIPS
If you create adaptive equipment for disabilities we'd love to partner to help support our community.
Adaptive Equipment
Items
We're looking for contributions for snacks and water for our participants on the day of the event July 20th.
Snacks + Water
Items
We need a handful of volunteers to assist with outfitting adaptive and photography equipment as well as support during our walk and roll on July 20
Volunteers
Help
