Getting funds or grants as a photographer is beyond having the best storytelling images but the ability to know what is required to win a grant. As a photographer, there are some basic questions that you should be able to answer for you to be able to win grants:
Why Do You Want A Grant?: This is where a lot of photographers get it wrong because they see grants as a means to earn a living instead of a means to actualize or achieve the sole aim of your project. Documentary photographers and photojournalists seek grants or funds to tell and document a particular story in a community. Once you are able to spell out “WHY” you are doing the project, then you’re on your way to winning the grant.
Why Is It Important Now?: Every little detail is important when applying for a grant. Some projects will not attract some organizations because the project is not very significant to the current situation or socio-economic challenges at that particular time. One needs to state clearly why the grant is important to the project at that time, etc.
Why Are You The Person Doing It?: At this stage, you really need to convince them that you’re the right person; perhaps you have had an experience or the impact on the story you want to tell had on you. You need to also state how the project or the story you’re going to tell has influenced society and you as a person.
Is It A New Idea, If Not Why Revisit?: This is one very strong and complex area especially if you’re doing what has been done before. As a photographer, there are always different angles to a story so you need to be able to justify why you’re revisiting the idea. It could be something like revisiting an old project in a new way or something new in an old way.
What New Thing Are You Bringing To The Table?: Majorly, if you are doing something that has been done before you need to state clearly what new thing you are bringing to that particular idea.
All these things need to be considered and well-articulated to the judges before you qualify for a possible grant winning.
