Frequently Asked Questions - Membership

Why should I become a member of Aperture?

All membership purchases support our mission to connect the photo community and its audiences with the most inspiring work, the sharpest ideas, and with each other—in print, in person, and online.

How long is my membership valid?

Your membership is valid for one calendar year from the date you signed up to join. For example, if you joined on August 1, 2021, your membership would expire on August 1, 2022. Memberships are not automatically renewed, but you will receive a reminder as your expiration date approaches.

Is my membership tax-deductible?

Yes, all memberships are partially tax-deductible. The exact amounts are noted here under each level.

Can I upgrade my existing membership to a higher level?

Yes. If you would like to upgrade your membership to a higher level, you may do so by paying the difference in price of the two memberships. Please contact the membership office at 212.946.7146 or membership@aperture.org, and we would be happy to assist you in making the change.

Does a subscription to Aperture magazine automatically qualify me as a member?

No, even though a subscription to Aperture magazine is a great way to support the organization, it does not constitute an Aperture membership.

What if I’m a subscriber and I want to become a member?

We’d love to have you! See all the membership options. Since members receive a free subscription to the magazine, if you’re already a subscriber, we’ll add a year’s worth of issues (4) to your current subscription, and you’ll receive all the other great benefits of membership.

Who should I contact to use my member discount to purchase a photograph?

Benefactor Circle, Paul Strand Circle, and Magazine Council members receive discounts on select limited-edition photographs. Please contact Kellie McLaughlin, director of sales and marketing, at kmclaughlin@aperture.org for details.

How do I use my member discount code when shopping online for books or purchasing a subscription to Aperture magazine?

Please log in to your account on aperture.org by clicking here. The prices that you see reflect the member discount.

I tried to purchase a membership on the website, but when I proceeded to checkout, I received a message that indicated I already had an Aperture account. How could I already have an account? What should I do now?

If you’ve bought a product on the website since October 2020, your account was automatically created for you after you checked out. To purchase a membership, you must first log in to your account by following the prompts. If you don’t know your password, click “lost your password,” and a reset ink will be emailed to you. Please check your spam/junk folder, as sometimes the email ends up there. If that doesn’t work, contact membership@aperture.org.

Will there be member-only events?

Yes. Throughout the year, Aperture hosts a variety of events, including artist talks, exhibition tours, gallery previews, and home visits with collectors, either virtually or in person, as CDC guidance allows.

Keep an eye out for invitations to upcoming member events. Visit our online events calendar for the latest schedule.

How can I see a schedule of upcoming member events?

Visit our online events calendar for the latest schedule.

Do I need to be based in the New York area to enjoy the benefits of an Aperture membership?

No. All membership levels include a one-year print subscription to Aperture magazine, a member-exclusive gift, and discounts on Aperture publications, plus the knowledge that you’re supporting the artists and writers who make a difference through photography.

Can I purchase a gift membership?

Absolutely! Share your love of photography by giving friends and family a gift membership. Gifts can be purchased here, or contact membership@aperture.org for details.

Aside from joining the membership community, I would like to make a contribution to the annual fund for general support. How can I do that?

Annual fund donations can be made by clicking here. Gifts to the annual fund are 100% tax deductible; they are nonrefundable and do not qualify as a membership gift or renewal.

I don’t see my question answered here. How can I contact the membership office?

You can call the membership office during regular business hours (Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.) at 212.946.7146, or email membership@aperture.org.