In response to the challenges faced by photojournalists in the current media landscape, the OPC and the BarTur Photo Award have formed a strategic partnership. This collaboration aims to create new opportunities for OPC member photographers, with a particular focus on supporting freelancers. The initiative offers multiple avenues for career advancement, including increased exposure and access to expanded resources.
At the heart of this partnership is the BarTur Photo Award, established in 2011, which offers $20,000 in prizes across various categories. Judged by top photo editors from global publications and partnered with Leica Cameras, the award is free to enter, making it accessible to photographers at all career stages. Additionally, the BarTur Award has launched Hot-Mirror, an online photography publication with over 15,000 subscribers. This platform provides interviews, portfolios, and industry insights, connecting photographers with key industry professionals. OPC members will have free access to this valuable resource.
Looking ahead, the BarTur Award is set to launch the Visual Storytellers Fund in Fall 2024. This nonprofit initiative will provide an additional $30,000 annually in grants for long-term photojournalism projects, addressing a crucial funding gap in the industry. The fund will not only support the creation of in-depth visual stories but also assist in their distribution to publications worldwide.
For OPC members, especially freelancers, this collaboration opens doors to showcase their work, gain recognition, and secure funding for substantial projects. It also provides networking opportunities that could lead to new collaborations and career advancements.
-Brian Byrd