Photo Opp is a nonprofit organization rooted in the belief that visual storytelling - through photography and video - has the power to connect people, spark creativity, and leave a lasting impact. Based in Appleton, Wisconsin, we offer hands-on learning experiences, creative opportunities, and accessible resources for storytellers of all ages and backgrounds. Whether someone is picking up a camera for the first time or building a creative career, Photo Opp provides a space to grow, connect, and be inspired.
Develop a welcoming community and inspire life-long learning through the lens of a camera
MISSION
Elevate the appreciation of visual expression and nurture passion for life beyond the camera
vision
Meet Us
founders
Board Members
AMY JAMES, President
GRAHAM WASHATKA, Vice President
JOHN ADAMS, Treasurer
MORGAN KIRCHENWITZ, Secretary
ADRIENNE PALM
BILLY HINTZ
BRANDI GRAHL
CHAR BRANDIS
CHRIS DEARING
JIM WEILAND
JOHN NANCE
MARK FERRELL
HQ
Photo Opp is housed in a building over a century old, with a rich and evolving story. Originally home to the Moses Montefiore Synagogue, this historic space in the heart of downtown Appleton has long served as a place for gathering, reflection, and community connection.
The history of our building also led the creative direction for Photo Opp’s logo. The building was originally the home to Moses Montefiore Synagogue. Montefiore means Mountain Flower. The architecture of the front of our building was used to give a mountainous look, and an iris for it’s photo/video terminology (it’s the opening of a lens).
Setting the Scene: Building Transformation
Transforming a 100-year-old synagogue into a modern visual non-profit workspace
Thanks to the dedication of our volunteers and the generosity of our community partners, together, we’re building a space where creativity and connection can thrive.
Day One
Now
-
![]()
established 2021 - renovations begin
-
![]()
2021 renovations
-
![]()
2021 renovations
-
![]()
demo 2021
-
![]()
2022 the space becomes a place to create
-
![]()
2023 Photo Opp starts to host workshops
-
![]()
2023 photo walk
-
![]()
2024 new flooring and hvac
-
![]()
2024 official opening of the space
-
![]()
2024 official opening of the space
-
![]()
2024 official opening of the space
-
![]()
2025 current programming
-
![]()
2025 current programming
what’s happening NOW at opp
GOALS
-
Increase capacity to build community and collaborate
Creating a fully-accessible space for our community by adding an accessible elevator, renovated bathrooms, adding an upstairs bathroom, and building in accessible spaces as needed.
Create a community co-working space will allow individuals exploring photography to seasoned professionals to learn from and collaborate together.
-
Increase capacity to educate in photography and videography
Adding a community studio, will be a community space for photography. This space will allow us to host workshops and classes with our community and also allow the community to rent out the studio for various needs.
The space will also work well for hosting field trips from the area school districts.
-
Increase capacity for advancing the arts, specific to photo and video
Our community art library will be filled with donations of prints, books, camera gear, and more, while also providing a space for us to showcase the current work completed through our programs.
Creating a connected community allows artists to learn from each other and develop bonds to enrich their lives.
As a registered 501(c)(3), Photo Opp thrives thanks to the generosity of our community. Every program, event, and opportunity we offer is made possible through the support of our community. Every donation, partnership, and helping hand goes into creating workshops, events, and spaces where visual storytelling thrives.
“Photo Opp is a place where people young, old, and in between can meet, communicate, and collaborate. A place where the curious hobbyist will find support and encouragement that becomes the catalyst for explosive creative growth in our community and beyond.”
-Mark Ferrell, Photo Opp Co-Founder