The Opening
Chapter
February 2 — March 30, 2026
The Opening Chapter is rooted in PLATFORM 2020’s commitment to photographers connected to Africa and SWANA. Priority will be given to applicants based in the region, with a small number of places available for photographers in the diaspora whose work is deeply grounded there.
Places are limited (25 total). This is intentionally small, to protect the studio space and ensure meaningful feedback.
Applications close January, 20 2026. We’re reviewing entries on a rolling basis and places are limited. Apply early for the best chance of a place.
Open Call
How it Works
What’s Included?
8 weekly live online sessions (90 mins each)
Guided feedback on edit, sequencing & project direction
A simple between-sessions rhythm to keep momentum
Short “Chapter Notes” after each session
A small starter library of resources & references
Participants bring a project in progress and submit a small set of images ahead of sessions (for those in the Active track), along with a short note about where they are in the work and what kind of feedback they need. Each live session includes focused critiques, followed by studio-style office hours for questions on editing, sequencing, ethics and process.
Places & Pricing
Places Open
-
For photographers with a project in progress who want structured, weekly momentum, thoughtful feedback and a clear next step for their work. It suits documentary, personal and long-form projects at any stage.
-
The Opening Chapter is built with a special focus on photographers from Africa and SWANA (South West Asia & North Africa), including artists living and working within the region and across the diaspora.
Applications are welcome from anywhere in the world, but our priority is intentional: to centre voices and practices 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.
-
Active Members submit work for critique, receive at least one guaranteed group critique slot across the 8 weeks and get one 30-minute 1–2–1 with Laura.
Studio Seat Members attend all sessions, join Q&A/office hours and receive Chapter Notes, but do not submit work for critique and do not receive a 1–2–1.
-
Sessions run weekly (90 minutes) on Google Meet. Active Members upload a small set of images ahead of time and include a short note on where they are in the work and what feedback they need. Sessions include focused critique plus studio-style office hours on editing, sequencing, ethics and process.
-
Plan for the 90-minute live session plus a little time before and after: selecting images, uploading and reflecting on the Chapter Notes. The rhythm is designed to be realistic and sustainable alongside work/life.
-
You can pay in full ($550) or choose two instalments ($300 on enrolment and $250 30 days later). Your place is confirmed once the first payment is received. Places are limited (Active: 20, Studio Seat: 5).
-
Treat the live sessions as the core of the experience. If you miss one, you’ll still receive the Chapter Notes, but access to recordings should not be relied on as a substitute for attending live.
The Opening Chapter FAQ
Still Unsure? Get in Touch
If you’re unsure which seat is right for you, or whether The Opening Chapter suits your project, send us a short note and we’ll point you in the right direction. If it’s covered above, the FAQ will have the quickest answer. One question is plenty. We’ll reply as soon as we can.