Short Description

We will fund a stills photography project that is either brand new, or in its earliest stages and which you can undertake within 12 months of receiving the award (i.e. by summer 2026 latest). The Trust must be the primary funder of the project and we will not fund projects that are already well underway. Therefore, you should apply with a project of suitable size for a £2,000 bursary.

We’ve used the word ‘narrative’ to describe the kind of photography we want to fund. This is because what’s most important to us is to tell human stories within a social or political context. While this is often approached through documentary photography or photojournalism, we are also open to photographers who work across genres such as fine art or portraiture.

 

Eligibility

The award is open to photographers who are either (i) UK citizens or (ii) currently full residents in the UK.

The award is for photographers at the early-to-mid career stage. By this, we mean a working professional photographer, trained, with some paid experience, but who does not yet earn a full living wage from their preferred style of photographic work.

There is no age limit and no requirement for art school or university education.

We warmly encourage photographers from culturally diverse backgrounds, those whose gender identity differs from their assigned sex, and those with disabilities.

Please note that we do not fund current undergraduates or full-time students on any course. We also do not fund work that forms part of a postgraduate degree.

 

How to Apply

Online Application

 

Program Benefits & Awards:

  • £2,000 to cover all costs (including personal fee) for the project
  • Support towards industry and public exposure
  • Promotion of your work through our online channels
  • Mentorship from Karen Harvey of Shutter Hub

 

Entry Fee:

None

 

Location:

United Kingdom

 

Timeline:

Application Deadline: 31 March 2025

 

Website Link: 2025 Award – Rebecca Vassie Trust