Vital Impacts Environmental Photography Mentorship Program

Vital Impacts Environmental Photography Mentorship Program

Funder: Vital Impacts (MT, US)
Website: vitalimpacts.org

Purpose

Provide intensive mentorship and guidance to emerging photographers to develop their photographic projects and skills in environmental storytelling. Mentees are paired with either an editor or a leading environmental photographer over a 12-month period.

Award Structure

• Number of Mentees: 10 emerging photographers selected annually (plus 50 additional applicants in first year for mentorship-only track)
• Duration: 12 months
• Mentorship Format: One-on-one pairing with either:
- An established editor, or - A leading environmental photographer

Mentorship Benefits

• Personalized guidance from industry professionals
• Participation in Vital Impacts monthly lecture series
• Networking with photographers, editors, and scientists globally
• Professional development in documentary photography
• Access to learning opportunities and inspirational talks

Geographic Scope

International. Past mentees have come from diverse locations including USA, Iran, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Mexico, Australia, Tanzania, Poland, Botswana, Peru, Canada, Kenya, Greece, Nigeria, Argentina, South Africa, Brazil, India, and Egypt.

Eligibility

• Who Can Apply: Emerging and established photographers interested in environmental storytelling
• Experience Level: Photographers at various career stages
• Global: Open to photographers worldwide

Application & Selection

• All Applicants Welcome: Every applicant invited to participate in monthly mentorship speaker series regardless of grant/mentorship selection
• Community Building: Focus on fostering community, sparking creativity, and inspiring positive change

Speaker Series

• Format: Monthly online mentorship talks
• Content: Compelling talks featuring original thinkers, bold ideas, and environmental storytellers
• Focus: Brings to life the biodiversity crisis and programs working toward sustainable futures
• Participation: All applicants and mentees invited to attend

Contact Information

Email: hello@vitalimpacts.org