WIN a 10-day photography assignment to Japan!
Applications for this scholarship are now closed and the winner has been announced.
Ever wondered what it would be like on assignment as a travel photographer?
This is your chance to win an all-expenses paid trip to Japan and be mentored by professional travel photographer and Canon Master, Richard I'Anson.
From the neon lights of Tokyo to the traditions and temples of Kyoto, Japan is the perfect place for photography enthusiasts.
Watch the video below to learn more:
This opportunity is now closed.
All these prizes could be yours:
Free flights
Round-trip airfare from your country of residence to Tokyo, Japan.
Adventure gear
Travel in comfort and style with awesome outdoor adventure gear from our friends at Kathmandu.
10-day all expenses paid trip in Japan
Go on a bespoke trip through ancient and modern Japan with a tour from World Expeditions and TourRadar.
Travel insurance
As always, we've got your back. You'll receive travel insurance for the duration of your trip from World Nomads.
Learn from a pro
Receive hands-on experience in everything from shot set up to technique, composition and visual storytelling under the mentorship of travel photographer and Canon Master, Richard I'Anson.
Photography tips guidebook
Lonely Planet’s Best Ever Photography Tips written by mentor Richard I'Anson, will sharpen your skills and your pictures.
PLUS - Our lucky shortlisted applications will receive a copy too!
How do I apply?
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Shoot your photo story (maximum of 5 images).
Your images must tell a story about a place you have visited. 'Place' may be anywhere; somewhere in your own community or much further away. Each of the 5 shots must have accompanying caption text (1-2 sentences) to help contextualize the shot.
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Craft a 1500-character essay telling us what winning this scholarship would mean to you and why we should choose you.
Your written essay will have significant weighting in the judging process, so think carefully about why you should be chosen.
Tell us about yourself, your passions, why you love photography, what drives you to take a better shot, where you would like to go with your photography etc. Help us form a picture in our mind of you as a person with your text.
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Complete the application form including your personal details along with uploading your photos.
Note:
Strictly one entry per person.
NOTE: Once you apply, you will not be able to go back and edit your application, so please make sure you are completely satisfied with your essay before you hit the submit button.
Important dates
What are the Judges looking for?
This is your chance to showcase your photography talents and unique perspective. The aim of the scholarship is the give the winner a foot in the door to the travel photography industry, so you’ll need to convince us that you are the best person to send.
Your photo essay should showcase your:
- Original subject and unique perspective
- Ability to convey a compelling story
- Excellent technique and creative composition
- Understanding of the subject through your captions
NOTE: Should your entry reach the final round of judging you will be asked to supply the RAW file of each photo for comparison with your submission (these may also be published online).
Looking for inspiration?
Check out some of our past winners and meet your mentor:
FAQ
We've listed the top question here.
- Am I considered a professional photographer?
We appreciate that the photography industry is difficult to break into and there are a lucky few who can count themselves as professional full-time photographers. This scholarship is very much about the mentorship opportunity, and the judging panel will be selecting the person who they feel will most benefit from the learning opportunity. So, if you currently make more than 25% of your income from ANY photography activities, you are not eligible. You will be asked to outline your experience to date in the submission process, and it will be the judging panel who decides who is most suitable based on their photos and written component.
- Do photos need to be taken with somewhat professional-grade camera equipment?
Camera equipment does not matter at all! Submit what you think works best as it's all about the image! Have a look at the winning photographs of our previous photography scholarships and see how your photos compare.
- What will I have to produce from my trip?
You will work through a specific shot list of 100 photos that will be commissioned by the scholarship partners as part of your assignment. On your return you will work with Richard I'Anson through the editorial process to shortlist your top photographs and color balance to achieve professional looking shots.
You will also keep a daily diary about your time on the trip and upload this plus pictures you've taken to your World Nomads travel journal.