Education: The central activity of the Archive is to provide indigenous people with access to photographic tools and materials. Individuals usually begin with recycled disposable 35mm cameras. Respecting the Archive's intention of not imposing visual standards, only basic camera instruction is given, such as how to hold the camera, look through the viewfinder, use the flash, etc. In order to gain confidence and feel comfortable with the camera as a new tool, the affiliated photographers are encouraged to explore their own interests, subject matter, and compositions. Later, workshops for groups and individual training provide photographers with additional skills and the opportunity to discuss their work with AFI staff. Currently the Archive darkroom is used only by staff members, but training in black and white film development and printing will be offered to the affiliated photographers.

In addition, the staff works with the affiliated photographers to prepare titles and texts. In titling photos and preparing exhibits, the multilingual staff with varying abilities and strengths in Tzeltal, Tzotzil, and Spanish, learn from each other as they further develop their literacy skills. Language development, both reading and writing in native languages and Spanish, is promoted through the AFI education program. Dictionaries are well-used by everyone, but humorous translations, or mis-translations rather, often lead to outbursts of laughter and discussion.