The Save Our Seas Foundation’s 2026 Ocean Storytelling Photography Grant offers two emerging photographers US$2,000 each, a paid three-week marine-conservation assignment and expert mentorship. Apply by 15 November 2026.
Background & Grant Description
The Save Our Seas Foundation (SOSF) is inviting applications for its 2026 Ocean Storytelling Photography Grant, an opportunity supporting emerging photographers who use visual storytelling to raise awareness of ocean conservation.
The grant aims to help photographers tell compelling stories about marine wildlife, habitats, fisheries and coastal communities. Selected participants will document an SOSF-supported marine research or conservation project.
Two winners will each receive US$2,000 and a paid three-week photographic assignment, including travel and a day rate. Applications close on 15 November 2026 at 18:00 Central European Time (CET).
Grant Benefits
Each successful applicant will receive:
- US$2,000 cash prize.
- A paid three-week photographic assignment documenting a marine research or conservation project supported by SOSF.
- Travel support and direct mentorship from experienced conservation storytelling professionals.
- An opportunity to showcase their work at an international conference or exhibition.
- Publication of their conservation story as a photo essay by the Save Our Seas Foundation.
The grant team includes Thomas Peschak, a National Geographic photographer, alongside experienced photography editors Kathy Moran and Jennifer Pritheeva Samuel.
Qualifications and Eligibility
The opportunity is designed for early-career and emerging photographers.
Applicants must have no more than five years of professional experience in a photography-related discipline and must be at least 18 years old.
Eligible storytelling themes include marine wildlife, underwater environments, coastal communities, fisheries and other subjects connected to ocean conservation. Underwater photography is not compulsory.
The foundation particularly encourages applications from women, gender-diverse photographers, people from the Global South and communities historically underrepresented in conservation storytelling.
Applicants should also note that only one application is permitted per applicant or team. People who currently hold another SOSF grant cannot apply for a new grant.
Additional Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Organisation | Save Our Seas Foundation |
| Grant | 2026 Ocean Storytelling Photography Grant |
| Number of winners | 2 |
| Cash prize | US$2,000 per winner |
| Assignment | Paid, three weeks |
| Application opening | 30 September 2026 |
| Application deadline | 15 November 2026, 18:00 CET |
| Assignment year | 2027 |
| Application portal | SOSF Grant Portal |
How to Apply
Applicants must complete a one-stage online application in English. The submission requires a portfolio of 20 images and a photo story containing 10 images.
Review the official Ocean Storytelling Photography Grant announcement and the funding guidelines before submitting your application through the SOSF Grant Portal.
Only one application is accepted per applicant or team. Ensure your portfolio and photo story meet the stated requirements before submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much funding does the Save Our Seas Photography Grant offer?
Each of the two winners receives a US$2,000 cash prize and a paid three-week photographic assignment, including travel and a day rate.
Who can apply for the photography grant?
Emerging photographers aged 18 or older with no more than five years of professional experience in a photography-related discipline may apply.
Does the photography have to be taken underwater?
No. Projects can cover marine wildlife, habitats, fisheries and coastal communities, among other ocean-related conservation subjects.
What must applicants submit?
Applicants must submit an online application in English, a portfolio of 20 images and a photo story of 10 images.
When is the application deadline?
Applications close on 15 November 2026 at 18:00 CET.
Where can applicants apply?
Applications are submitted through the official SOSF Grant Portal.
Opportunities Feed Assessment
The Save Our Seas Foundation Photography Grant is a valuable opportunity for emerging photographers interested in marine conservation and visual storytelling. Beyond the US$2,000 prize, the paid assignment, mentorship and potential international exhibition provide opportunities to develop a professional conservation photography portfolio.
Photographers should prepare a strong portfolio and a clear photo narrative before the deadline.
Disclaimer: Opportunities Feed shares grants and opportunities for informational purposes. It is not affiliated with the Save Our Seas Foundation and does not administer the grant. Applicants should verify all requirements and application details through the official foundation website.
SEO Keywords: Save Our Seas Photography Grant 2026, Ocean Storytelling Photography Grant, photography grants 2026, marine conservation photography, US$2000 photography grant, paid photography assignment, conservation photography opportunities, wildlife photography grants, emerging photographers grants, ocean conservation opportunities, SOSF grant application
