Our Mission

The Oregon Photographic Society fosters creativity, education, and community through photography. We support photographers of all backgrounds by providing access to exhibitions, learning opportunities, and inclusive creative spaces.

Our Vision

We envision a vibrant photographic community where artistic expression is accessible to all, where diverse voices are amplified, and where photography serves as a tool for connection, storytelling, and social understanding.

The Oregon Photographic Society (OPS) is a community-centered organization dedicated to advancing photography as both an art form and a means of education and connection.

Founded by photographers and educators, OPS was created to address a need for accessible, inclusive spaces where people could learn, share, and grow through photography. What began as a local creative initiative has grown into a platform supporting exhibitions, educational programs, youth engagement, and community collaboration throughout Oregon.

OPS works with schools, galleries, artists, and community partners to:

  • Present exhibitions that highlight emerging and established photographers

  • Provide photography education for youth and adults

  • Support creative access through scholarships and community programs

  • Foster meaningful connections within the photographic community

We believe photography is more than an image. It is a way of seeing, learning, and belonging. Through our programs and partnerships, OPS strives to make photographic practice welcoming, equitable, and impactful.

About the Oregon Photographic Society

The Board

Michael Henley
Advisor to the board.

Michael Henley is a professional photographer and educator with more than 50 years of experience in portrait and commercial photography. He began his career while studying at Portland State University and later founded Contemporary Images Photography in Milwaukie, Oregon, where he has worked with clients in advertising, publishing, and the arts.

Michael has taught photography for over 35 years at institutions including Portland State University, Marylhurst University, Portland Community College, and Mt. Hood Community College. Widely respected for his expertise in studio lighting, he has served as a lighting consultant for acclaimed photographer Art Wolfe and has judged photography exhibitions at county and state fairs across Oregon.

Through his professional work, teaching, and mentorship, Michael has made lasting contributions to the photographic community in Oregon.

Cora Coronel
Founder & President

Since relocating to Portland, Oregon in 2011, Cora Coronel has been an active leader within the local photography community, with a strong focus on education, mentorship, and community-building. She has pursued both formal and informal photography education, including studies at Portland Community College, and has further developed her practice through long-standing mentorship with professional photographers.

Cora has maintained a sustained and meaningful relationship with Photo Club PDX, contributing to community learning and peer engagement, as well as with Blue Moon Camera and Machine, supporting educational initiatives and photographic culture in the region.

Her photographic work has been exhibited internationally, with recent exhibitions including the Chehalem Cultural Center. Through her leadership, teaching, and collaborative work, Cora is committed to expanding access to photography education and strengthening inclusive creative spaces for emerging and established photographers alike.

Meet the Members

  • Mark Mcvey

    Member

  • Max Hinz

    Member

  • Luke Olsen

    Member

  • Amit Zinman

    Member

  • Patrick F. Smith

    Member

  • Gerry Villani

    Member

  • Whittney Walker

    Member

  • Kate Hailey

    Member

  • Eryn Laetsch

    Member

  • Vadim Vainer

    Member

  • Tommy Spencer

    Member

  • Clifton Chestnut

    Member

  • Douglas Brandon

    Member

  • Miranda Nicholson

    Member

  • Alicia Webb

    Member

  • Faeloria Tso'i

    Member

  • Kylie Harrell

    Member

  • Dean Wirick

    Member

  • Michelle O'Brien

    Member

  • Kimberly Pugmire

    Member

  • Psykhe Martinez

    Member

  • Courtney Tatiana Wilson

    Member

  • Diego Giovanni Sanchez

    Member

  • Raina Martin

    Member

  • Shadoe Smith

    Member

  • Rick Hamell

    Member

  • Christopher Lee

    Member