APL Media’s picture editor Olly Pulglisi and picture researcher Aisha Nazar, part of the National Geographic Traveller (UK) team, participated in Diversify Photo’s third annual portfolio review in October. This international three-day event, designed to address representation in photography, welcomed a record number of industry professionals and photographers from over 14 time zones, showcasing diverse talent from as far afield as East and Southern Africa, the Philippines, France and Bulgaria. 

Diversify Photo, a community for BIPOC and non-Western photographers, seeks to redefine industry standards by expanding opportunities for underrepresented creatives. The event brought together key media entities, including TIME, The Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, and now — for the first time — National Geographic Traveller (UK), to help contribute to a broader vision of representation in global media. 

The purpose of the portfolio review is to provide artists with expertise and guidance from supportive and established industry professionals. Participants each have a 30-minute, individual session to discuss their ongoing work, ask questions and build new professional relationships. 

“Being able to connect with these 10 talented photographers from diverse backgrounds was truly uplifting,” said Aisha. “We reviewed some impressive portfolios and, in the process, introduced them to National Geographic Traveller (UK)’s photography-led commissions, aiming to build connections and deepen our commitment to creating opportunities for photographers from underrepresented backgrounds.” 

“Diversification in the photography industry, particularly in travel, has been long overdue and this initiative is a significant step in empowering editors to drive this change,” said Olly. “I hope this marks the beginning of many great collaborations to come!” 

For more on Diversify Photo and its mission, visit Diversify Photo.  

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About APL Media    

An award-winning publisher and content marketing agency founded in 1997, APL Media Limited has been changing the narrative, and the way clients communicate with their audiences, for over 27 years. In addition to publishing the award-winning magazines National Geographic Traveller (UK) and Food by National Geographic Traveller (UK) and organising related events under the National Geographic brand umbrella, APL Media produces print, digital and live media across the travel and lifestyle sector. aplmedia.co.uk