Born and raised in New York City, Francine Fleischer pursued her academic interests in photography at the State University of New York (SUNY) at Purchase. This institution is known for its strong arts programs and has produced a wide array of artists who have gone on to achieve notable acclaim in various disciplines. At SUNY Purchase, Francine had the extraordinary opportunity to study under some of the most revered names in contemporary photography.

Jan Groover, one of her mentors, is particularly known for her pioneering work in still life and her experimental approach to photography. Groover’s work has been featured in significant exhibitions and is a part of numerous permanent collections, offering Francine an invaluable education in compositional techniques and artistic conceptualization.

Another of her influential teachers was Jed Devine, renowned for his focus on traditional black-and-white photography. Under Devine, Francine learned the intricacies of monochrome compositions, and how to utilize light and shadow effectively, adding layers to her own work in terms of emotional depth and technical finesse.

Laurie Simmons, the third luminary under whom Francine studied, is celebrated for her staged photography that often features dolls and objects in human-like settings, commenting on gender roles and domestic life. Simmons offered Francine a distinct perspective on storytelling through images, enriching her narrative style.

Following her successful academic journey at SUNY Purchase, Francine Fleischer was awarded a grant to delve deeper into media studies at New York University (NYU). Known for its media and communications programs, NYU provided her with an interdisciplinary understanding of how photography intersects with other media formats like film, journalism, and digital platforms. This experience not only fortified her theoretical understanding but also expanded her skill set, making her a more versatile artist.

Francine’s post-academic career took an exciting turn when she had the chance to work in the studios of two globally recognized photographers: Annie Leibovitz and Michel Comte.

Annie Leibovitz is an American portrait photographer best known for her engaging and often dramatic celebrity photographs. Her work has graced the covers of publications like Rolling Stone, Vanity Fair, and Vogue. Working alongside Leibovitz offered Francine a firsthand experience of high-stakes, high-profile photography shoots, and taught her how to manage the nuances of capturing compelling portraits.

Michel Comte, a Swiss photographer, is well-regarded for his fashion photography as well as his portraits of political figures and celebrities. His images often exhibit a striking interplay of light, composition, and subject matter. The experience of working in Comte’s studio enriched Francine’s understanding of international styles and aesthetics, further diversifying her portfolio and approach.

Through these enriching educational and professional experiences, Francine Fleischer has carved out her own unique niche in the competitive world of photography, benefitting immensely from the cumulative wisdom and techniques of the industry giants she had the privilege to study and work with.