FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. What are Expeditions?

Expeditions are immersive field opportunities where photographers and visual storytellers travel to work alongside grassroots nonprofit partners around the world. Participants use their photography or video-making skills to create impactful visual stories that support the partner’s mission and programs.

2. Who can participate in an Expedition?

To apply, you must be a professional member of Photographers Without Borders and have experience in photography or video-making. This ensures storytellers are prepared to deliver high-quality work that benefits the community partners.

3. Do I need any specific certifications to go on an Expedition?

Yes. Participants are required to complete the Ethical Storytelling Certification before joining. This certification is included in the logistics/administration cost for those who haven’t completed it yet.

4. Are Expeditions suitable for beginners?

Expeditions generally expect participants to be comfortable travelers with prior visual storytelling experience. Beginners with minimal experience might not be best suited unless they already meet these requirements and the Expedition’s specific criteria. Photographers Without Borders

5. What’s the difference between an Expedition and a Storytelling School workshop?

  • Expeditions are in-field experiences — travel with community partners, produce real stories for real impact, and work directly with organizations on the ground.

  • Storytelling School workshops are educational programs focused on building your skills through guided instruction (online or in-person), without the travel/field component.

6. Are there limits on group size?

Yes. Expeditions typically range from 1–6 participants, depending on the specific trip and partner needs.

7. What do participants actually do on an Expedition?

While details vary by trip, duties usually include:

  • Photographing/documenting local programs and community stories

  • Creating images or videos that community partners can use for campaigns all year

  • Potentially contributing to your own portfolio or pitches to media outlets
    Every Expedition’s itinerary and focus can differ based on the partner organization’s needs.

8. How long are Expeditions?

Duration varies by specific Expedition. Some may be short (around one week), others may last longer depending on the goals and logistics of the project. (Example: the Sumatra Expedition runs ~10 days).

9. Do I need special gear (e.g., underwater housing)?

There’s no general requirement for specialty gear like underwater housings — gear needs depend on the specific Expedition’s focus and environment. However, you should bring whatever equipment you need to fulfill the visual storytelling goals of that particular trip. Confirm gear needs with the organizers if you’re unsure.

10. What happens to the photos/stories created on the Expedition?

The images and video you make are shared with the community partner, who may use them year-round for advocacy, fundraising, or outreach. You also often gain material for your own portfolio and storytelling practice.

Okay, I’m ready!

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