Opportunity details | The Light Frame Gallery | Open Call for Social Photo Essays

The Light Frame Gallery | Open Call for Social Photo Essays

Deadline: 31/12/2025

As we begin the launch of The Light Frame Gallery, we are seeking photographers whose practice engages with photography as a medium for critical dialogue and social change. We welcome work that sheds light on underrepresented narratives and stimulates discussion across communities. We encourage submissions from both emerging and established photographers. Projects in‑progress are equally welcome, as we value the process of developing ideas as much as the final outcome.

What we’re interested in

Projects addressing, but not limited to:

Social justice and human rights
Poverty and economic inequality
LGBTQ+ experiences and rights
Black Lives Matter and racial justice
Social inequity and systemic discrimination
Migration, displacement, and borders
Climate change and environmental justice
Disability and accessibility
Gender equality and women’s rights
Indigenous rights and cultural preservation

What selected photographers receive

Selected works will be showcased as part of The Light Frame Gallery’s programming, where photography is positioned not only as a tool of memory or marketing but as a powerful catalyst for awareness, empathy, and positive change.

This could include a feature project post, Social media feature or the possibility to become part of an exhibition.

Submission checklist

350–500 word project outline (PDF or plain text)
5-10 images at ≤1MB each (JPG or PNG)
Optional: image captions, dates, locations, and credits
Your name, and a short bio (≤100 words)
Links to website or social (optional)

File naming tip: Lastname_Firstname_ProjectTitle_01.jpg (and so on).

Selection & timeline

We aim to respond to all submissions within 7 days.

All applicants will be notified by email. Selection is made by The Light Frame Gallery curatorial team.

Accessibility

We welcome alternative formats: audio description of the project (≤3 minutes), video statement (≤2 minutes), or a phone/Zoom conversation on request.

Rights & permissions

By submitting, you confirm that you hold the necessary rights to the work and that any required consents (e.g. model or location permissions) have been obtained.

Selected artists grant The Light Frame Gallery a non‑exclusive licence to reproduce submitted materials for press and promotional purposes (Never retail or sale without prior written agreement between the gallery and artist(s)) related to the programme, with full credit.

Important

Please submit each project as a separate application so it can be assessed on its own merits. We recommend focusing on your strongest proposal to ensure a clear, equitable review.

Make a submission Contact the curator

Q: Who can apply?

Emerging and established photographers working anywhere in the world are welcome. We accept solo artists and collectives, and projects can be complete or in-progress. What matters most is a clear, socially engaged intent.

What kinds of projects are you looking for?

Photo essays or bodies of work that spark dialogue and social change—e.g., social justice and human rights; poverty and inequality; LGBTQ+ experiences; Black Lives Matter and racial justice; migration and borders; climate and environmental justice; disability and accessibility; gender equality; and Indigenous rights/cultural preservation. Both documentary and art-led approaches are welcome.

What do I need to submit?

Please send a 350–500 word project outline describing the concept, context, and aims of your work, plus 5–10 images (JPG or PNG), each no larger than 1MB. Optional extras: short bio (≤100 words), image captions/credits, and links to your website or social.

How do I submit?

Use the CuratorSpace form for this listing.

Is there a fee to submit, and are photographers paid?

Submission is free. Selected works are showcased as part of The Light Frame Gallery’s programming; there is currently no artist fee for this opportunity. If future funding changes this, we’ll update the listing.

Can I submit work that has been shown or published elsewhere?

Yes, previously exhibited or published work is eligible as long as you own the rights and include any relevant credits. Please disclose prior showings so we can contextualise the presentation.

Can I submit more than one project?

Yes. Please submit each project as a separate application so it can be assessed on its own merits. We recommend focusing on your strongest proposal to ensure a clear, equitable review.

What are your selection criteria and review process?

We look for relevance to the call’s themes, conceptual clarity, ethical practice (including consent where needed), visual strength/coherence, and the project’s potential to stimulate dialogue across communities. Reviews are rolling, and we aim to respond to all submissions within 24 hours.

What happens if my work is selected?

We’ll contact you to confirm details and may request additional images, captions, a short bio, and alt text for accessibility. You retain copyright; you grant The Light Frame Gallery a non-exclusive licence to use selected materials for programme presentation and promotion with full credit.

Do you have any guidelines on ethics, consent, and sensitive subjects?

Yes. Projects should respect the dignity, safety, and privacy of participants—obtain model/location permissions where appropriate, avoid harm, and provide context that does not sensationalize. De-identify vulnerable subjects when necessary, and be prepared to share your approach to consent and safeguarding.

Are submissions open internationally and which timezone should I keep in mind?

Yes—international submissions are welcome. We operate on UK time (Europe/London).

What does a strong 350–500 word project outline look like?

Briefly introduce your subject, explain the social context and why it matters now, outline your approach (methods, ethics, access/consent), describe the intended impact or audience, and note where the project is in its lifecycle (research, shooting, editing, publishing). Keep it specific and avoid generic statements—one or two concrete scenes or examples help.

Do you accept projects that combine text, audio, or video with photographs?

Yes—photo-led projects that include supporting text, audio, video, or archival materials are welcome. The primary narrative should still be photographic, but mixed-media elements that deepen understanding are encouraged.

How will selected work be presented and credited?

Selected projects appear within The Light Frame Gallery’s online programming and related channels. Images are credited with your name, project title, year(s), and any collaborator credits. We may ask for short captions and alt text for accessibility. Watermarks are not allowed.

Can I update or withdraw my submission after sending it?

Yes. If you need to replace files, correct captions, or withdraw entirely, contact us through the Contact curator tab
with your name and submission title, and indicate the change you need. We’ll confirm once it’s actioned.

Do you accept AI-generated imagery or heavy compositing?

Unfortunately, not at this stage.

Are there any content sensitivity guidelines (graphic material, vulnerable subjects)?

Yes. If your work includes distressing or potentially triggering content (e.g., violence, medical procedures), provide a brief content note in your outline. Avoid sensationalism, protect identities when required (e.g., minors, at-risk individuals), and ensure informed consent and safeguarding are in place.

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