The program has been newly redesigned for 2021. In partnership with VII Academy, it will provide a structured professional environment for emerging new talents in the industry, focusing on those from the majority world and underrepresented communities. Many of our mentees have gone on to build successful careers in the media. Some of them are now members of VII, Noor, and Magnum photo agencies and are working on assignments for publications like The New York Times, Time Magazine, and National Geographic.
The duration of the program is two years. During this time, the mentees will have weekly scheduled contact with the program leader and be integrated into a structured professional learning environment. They will work with editors, curators, and other media professionals and be assigned to a practicing member of VII who will provide professional guidance and mentoring. VII Photo Agency will distribute the photographer’s work for the duration of the program.
**Please note that the program start date is approximate and is subject to change.
How to Apply
Please click here to apply through Awardforce through June 18, 2021 at 11:59 PM EST. You must first set up a simple account and then will be able to select “VII Mentor Program” from a drop-down list of categories.
The application requires a portfolio consisting of stories (not single images) that should demonstrate the breadth of the applicant’s photographic experience; proof of at least six published pieces of work; and information about background and experience. All texts must be submitted in English.
Please contact [email protected] with any questions.
VII Mentor Program Selection Criteria
The VII Mentor Program invites applications from the following:
- Promising and talented emerging photographers from diverse backgrounds, especially those from underrepresented communities within the industry.
- Photographers who are already trained and have a minimum of 3 years of professional experience (some allowances will be made for advancement/skills training for working photographers who have had no access to formal education or training).
- Photographers who can demonstrate a cohesive personal aesthetic vision and are generating interesting, unexpected and mature story ideas.
- Note: Some applicants may be considered too advanced for the program.
VII Mentor Program Codes of Ethics
Every Mentor at VII is obligated to abide by the VII Mentor Program Code of Ethics.
Every Mentee at VII is obligated to abide by the VII Photographer Code of Ethics.
