What is PLATFORM 2020 all about?

Think of it as a home for curious photographers. With over two decades of experience in the field, we understand both the joys and the challenges of documentary photography, including how expensive it can be. The idea for PLATFORM 2020 crystallised during the pandemic, a moment that revealed how vital community, connection and access are when the world feels out of reach.

Our mission is to bring learning directly into your home, so you can grow your craft and experiment wherever you are. We are especially passionate about supporting voices from Africa and the Middle East, the region we come from, and one too often priced out of opportunities like these. PLATFORM 2020 exists to democratise learning in documentary photography, bringing it to you rather than you going to it.

Which regions does PLATFORM 2020 focus on?

PLATFORM 2020 centres photographers and documentary practices from Africa and SWANA (South West Asia & North Africa).

You’ll still see work and participants from all over the world, but our focus is intentional: to support voices and communities that are too often under-resourced or sidelined within mainstream photography education. We use SWANA as a more accurate, decolonial framing than “the Middle East”, while staying rooted in lived geography, culture and shared histories.

If you’re unsure whether your work fits, you’re welcome to reach out.

By SWANA, we mean participants with roots in (& diaspora from): Afghanistan, Algeria, Bahrain, Cyprus, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, Türkiye, United Arab Emirates, Yemen & Western Sahara.

Do I need to be a professional to join?

Not at all. Whether you’re just picking up a camera or already working on long-term projects, there’s a space for you here. All you need is curiosity and a love for stories.

What if I can’t afford a course right now?

Our core ethos is that learning shouldn’t be limited by your wallet. If cost is a barrier, please reach out to us directly. We’ll do our best to work something out because your stories deserve to be told.

Do you offer scholarships or discounts?

Not at this stage. To keep the programme accessible, we offer payment plans on selected programmes and we keep places limited so the learning stays personal and rigorous.

If cost is a barrier, join Letters from Home, we occasionally release additional payment options and early notice when new chapters open.

What kind of courses will I find here?

From quick introductions to get you started, to in-depth workshops and mentorships, there’s something for every stage of your journey. We cater to photographers across all stages of their careers from those just starting out, to mid-career practitioners, to advanced photographers ready to publish their book or prepare for a major exhibition. Whatever stage you’re at, we’re here to offer expert support and guidance from trusted voices of authority in the field. All our courses stay rooted in the craft and heart of documentary photography.

Will the courses & talks on PLATFORM 2020 be available in other languages?

Yes. PLATFORM 2020 is built on the belief that knowledge should travel freely across borders and languages. Our recorded courses and talks include subtitles in English, Arabic and French, ensuring accessibility for our global community.
For live sessions and talks, we offer real-time interpretation or auto-translated captions in both Arabic and French, depending on the event.
As our platform grows, we’ll continue expanding translation access so that every voice, from Cairo to Casablanca to Cape Town, can learn and share without barriers.

Do I need fancy gear?

Nope. Storytelling begins with your eyes, not your equipment. A phone camera is enough to start and we’ll help you make the most of whatever you have.

Will I get to connect with other photographers?

Definitely. We’re building a community, not just courses. Expect to share your work, get feedback and feel part of a global circle of PLATFORM 2020 storytellers.

Is everything online?

Yes, so you can join us from anywhere in the world. Our slogan is Bringing the Far Away Near, and we mean it. All you need is a decent internet connection, your camera (or phone) and a notebook.

How do I know which course is right for me?

Each course has a clear description of who it’s for. Still unsure? Drop us a message and we’ll happily guide you.

Will I get a certificate?

Some courses will include a certificate, but what you’ll really walk away with is new skills, confidence and connections that last much longer than paper.