During his lifetime, John Taylor developed a love of art, poetry, music and — most passionately — photography. Born and reared in Charlotte, John’s life was photography, both in his career and as a way of giving back to the community. The Light Factory was the lucky recipient of his talent and dedication. When Johnny died in 1993, his family established the John Taylor Memorial Education Fund at The Light Factory to continue supporting his vision and legacy.

The fund provides scholarships and support to students through The Light Factory's education team. Our teachers inspire students and youth who would otherwise not be exposed to the power of image through photography and filmmaking.

At The Light Factory we are committed to taking our love of photography and film into the community, specifically through our teen courses and with our work in Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools. We offer summer camps and weekend workshops where we teach both digital and darkroom photography to spark a passion for photography in the next generation. We have a wide range of classes from digital photography to traditional darkroom courses as well as studio lighting and Photoshop. We expose youth to the power of self-expression through photography to help them view themselves and the world around them through a different lens. Every contribution to the fund will support The Light Factory's mission to empower the youth through photography and film. Your financial support bolsters the John Taylor Education Fund, making it possible for The Light Factory to touch more and more young lives each year. Please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to the John Taylor Education Fund.