Applications are currently being accepted for the Vital Impacts Environmental Photography Fellowships 2027. Interested applicants are encouraged to click here to learn more about this opportunity and apply for it.
About Vital Impacts Environmental Photography Fellowships
Vital Impacts, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is dedicated to amplifying the work of communities protecting people, wildlife, and habitats. For the 2027 cycle, the program will award one $20,000 fellowship, six $5,000 fellowships, and ten mentorships to photographers developing long-term documentary projects. In addition, one selected fellow will have their work fully produced and exhibited at the prestigious 2027 Festival of Ethical Photography in Lodi, Italy, with all travel and accommodation covered.
Benefits of Vital Impacts Environmental Photography Fellowships
If you are selected for the Vital Impacts Fellowships, here is what your funding and support package includes:
- $20,000 grant for one (1) established environmental photographer (The Dr. Jane Goodall Fellowship)
- $5,000 grants for six (6) emerging photographers from around the world
- Twelve months of dedicated time, financial support, and creative independence to develop your documentary project
- Ongoing professional guidance from the Vital Impacts mentorship community throughout the year
- Full production, installation costs, international travel, and accommodation for one (1) selected fellow to exhibit at the 2027 Festival of Ethical Photography in Lodi, Italy
- Ten (10) additional intensive mentorships for emerging photographers whose work shows strong potential
Vital Impacts Environmental Photography Fellowships Requirements
To be eligible for the Vital Impacts Environmental Photography Fellowships, you must meet all of the following requirements:
- Local Connection: You must document a story within your own community or demonstrate sustained, in-depth knowledge of a community through long-term engagement, recurring travel, or established relationships. Applications from photographers residing outside the respective community without an established connection will not be considered.
- Project Focus: You must propose a long-term documentary still-photography project that explores environmental/conservation challenges and the people/communities working toward solutions.
- Ethics: You must agree to, sign, and strictly follow the Vital Impacts Code of Ethics and Environmental Fellowship Agreement.
- Nationality: Photographers from anywhere in the world may apply, provided they are not the target of comprehensive territorial sanctions.
- Language: Applications can be submitted in your native language or in English (translation services are provided for fair evaluation).
- Note on Experience: Prior publication experience is not required. Team applications or primary video/film proposals are not accepted.
Required Documents
When preparing your application, you will need to gather the following materials:
- A thoughtful and realistic project statement and 12-month development plan
- A portfolio of still images demonstrating a distinctive visual approach and strong photographic ability
- Evidence or explanation of your existing access, trust, and sustained relationship with the community or issue
- Signed Vital Impacts Code of Ethics agreement
Application Date and Process
If you are interested in applying for the Vital Impacts Fellowships, follow these steps carefully:
- Review the Vital Impacts Code of Ethics and ensure your proposed project aligns with the solutions-focused theme.
- Prepare your project proposal, relationships statement, and portfolio in English or your native language.
- Submit your application through the official Picter portal before the deadline.
- Application Fee: A $25 entrance fee applies. However, this fee is completely waived for all applicants from developing countries (including Afghanistan). Email [email protected] to request your fee waiver code before submitting.
Opportunity Application
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Vital Impacts Environmental Photography Fellowships
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