If you love photography as an art form, the John P. Schaefer Center for Creative Photography (CCP) in Tucson is an essential stop. Founded in 1975 with legendary photographer Ansel Adams among its creators, this premier research facility and archival repository sits within the Fine Arts Complex on the University of Arizona campus.
When you visit, you will experience a world-class institution dedicated to collecting, preserving, interpreting, and sharing the history of photography. The center houses an extraordinary collection of over 80,000 images representing more than 2,000 photographers, alongside the complete archives of over sixty famous American masters. You can see works by icons such as Edward Weston, Harry Callahan, Garry Winogrand, Richard Avedon, Edward Steichen, and Paul Strand.
Notably, the CCP holds the complete archives of Ansel Adams, including every negative known to exist at the time of his death. Inside the 55,000-square-foot space, you can explore public gallery areas that showcase an ever-changing rotation of compelling exhibits. Beyond its gallery displays, the center features a 240-seat lecture hall and offers research assistance, educational programs, and a museum store, making it a rich cultural destination.
What to see at John P. Schaefer Center for Creative Photography
- Complete archives of Ansel Adams, including all negatives known at his death
- Full archives of over 60 famous American photographers like Edward Weston
- Collection of over 80,000 images representing more than 2,000 photographers
- Ever-changing public gallery exhibits dedicated to photography as an art form
- Located in a 55,000-square-foot facility on the University of Arizona campus
Visiting tips
Be sure to stop by the museum store or explore their online collection if you want to extend your research experience.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Weekdays
How to get there & what’s nearby
John P. Schaefer Center for Creative Photography is easy to reach on Tucson’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Mosque Tucson. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Tucson travel guide.
See the full Tucson travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.