Are you a photographer, videographer, or multimedia producer looking to apply to be a member of Diversify Photo? You have come to the right place.
(Are you an editor, art director, or curator who wants to join Diversify Photo? Your application form is over here.)
We continue to accept applications for membership in our database, which is used by editors at most major media outlets worldwide.
When do you review applications?
We review applications on a rolling basis, which practically speaking means twice a year.
Who can apply?
Photographers, photo editors, videographers, and multimedia producers of all levels are invited for membership in Diversify Photo, provided that they self-identify as non-Western or people of color, and are actively working towards a career in editorial, commercial, or fine art photography.
How much does it cost?
Membership is (and always will be) free for photographers.
Does Diversify Photo choose who gets invited?
We enlist a group of external photography professionals to review each applicant, verifying that everyone in the member database is assignment-ready. This vetting process is critical to establishing and maintaining trust with those who use our database to make hiring decisions by giving them the confidence to take a chance on new talent in the absence of a traditional personal recommendation.
What metrics do the reviewers look at?
In general, photographer applications that are recommended for membership have a strong presence of repeated commissioned and/or assigned work with brands, publications, and organizations for a regional or national audience. The photographers demonstrate current work that is editorial, fashion, commercial, or rooted in the fine arts. Their portfolios demonstrate a focused, committed approach, and a developed artistic style for the photographer. The portfolios are organized in a way that is easy to navigate and highlights the photographer’s skill.
Why was my application not accepted?
For the applications that are not recommended, some recurring themes are:
- A website that failed to load quickly or that gave a 404 (page not found) error.
- Portfolio links point to agencies, businesses, or groups and make it hard for the reviewers to determine what the applicant’s role is.
- Portfolios that are Instagram accounts only. Instagram posts are a fine way to remind editors who follow you that you are producing work but generally do not provide enough information to make a hiring decision. As a working or aspiring photographer your portfolio should be an ever-evolving element.