Here are the quick instructions to submit a portfolio for the gallery. As a reminder, the purpose of the gallery is to display documentary photography that connects with real life in people and cultures around the world. Please see the additional notes below for more on what I am (and am not) looking for.

1. Choose a set of 9 or 12 photos that fit well together. Then I prefer if you include a few extras and allow me to make the final selection (unless you have a very tight portfolio you want to preserve “as is”). Select photos that are important to you and match the purpose of the gallery (e.g., a series of documentary moments, a photo story, a set of documentary portraits, etc). Select either color or black and white photos (not both).

2. Prepare web quality “jpeg” images (ideally 645 pixels on the longest side but don’t worry if they are larger or slightly smaller).

3. (Optional) Lists the file names and titles for each photo (if you want them titled and/or in order). You can also include captions and/or longer descriptions of each photo if you want.

4. Prepare a brief introduction of yourself and your work, including the background story if that will help viewers better appreciate your work. Be sure to include your name and your website URL(s) so you will be credited and linked correctly.

5. Send your photos and introduction by email to the address below.

seeingtheworld [a-t] globalcompassion [d-o-t] com

Additional notes

What I am looking for (and what I am NOT looking for)

I am looking for well executed artistically pleasing photographs bringing together strong composition, style, and technique with equally strong subjects and content.

I am looking for sets of photographs that connect with both the hearts and minds of viewers (individual photos may connect more strongly in one way or the other but the set engage viewers on multiple levels).

I am NOT looking for stereotypical subjects unless you have a unique and powerful subject or story. I love photos of adorable children, but don’t send a photo set featuring children unless you have a uniquely powerful story to tell. The same goes for photos of homeless people, poor people looking miserable, etc.

I am looking for successful portraits that make a connection with the subjects, but generally I am NOT looking for portraits of people who are smiling widely at the camera, waving, showing peace signs, etc. (I understand there are exceptions to this and every other rule.)

Watermarks (putting your name on each photo)

Discreet watermarks are fine, but don’t send images with large or distracting watermarks.

Credits and links

I’ll credit you clearly and include the link(s) you request.

After you submit a set of photos

I will send a confirmation email when I receive the photos. I will let you know if your photos are accepted for display in the gallery. In some cases, I will ask you to send additional photos to make your photo set stronger or more complete. No offense is intended, but the point of having a curated gallery is to set a standard. You may argue that the standard is subjective, and you will be correct.

Copyright and ownership of photos

You will not lose any rights to your photos, including the copyright. I only display photos with permission from the photographers. I will remove photos promptly if the photographer requests.

Why participate

I am a photographer, too. I think we all want others to see and appreciate our work. This website is an opportunity to a) display your work in a curated environment, b) alongside the work of other talented photographers and c) connect with a new audience — and it’s free.