The National Press Photographers Foundation offers a variety of scholarships and grants designed to support students pursuing careers in photojournalism and visual storytelling. Our programs provide financial assistance, mentorship opportunities, and professional development resources to help emerging photographers succeed in the field.
Scholarship Details
- Eleven scholarships of $2,500 are awarded each year
- Scholarships support students with talent and dedication to photojournalism who demonstrate financial need
- Applicants are considered for multiple named scholarships through one application
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be an undergraduate or graduate student enrolled for the spring semester of 2026
- Must attend a four-year college or university in the United States
- Must demonstrate dedication to photojournalism or visual storytelling
- Must confirm adherence to the National Press Photographers Association Code of Ethics
Application Process
- Obtain a recommendation letter from a professor familiar with your work on university letterhead, dated 2026, and signed
- Complete the required NPPF CV submission form with contact information, academic standing, and experience details
- Prepare three or four one-page essays describing your journey, financial need, and career aspirations
- If applying for the Clarkson Scholarship, secure an additional reference letter and write an extra leadership essay
- Prepare a portfolio of still photographs, picture stories, and or videos following NPPF image and file specifications
- Upload your CV, essays, recommendation letters, and portfolio materials to the Picter application site
All photojournalists are considered for a pool of nine scholarships: the Bob Baxter Scholarship, Blackburn/East Scholarship, James Brown & Frank Folwell Scholarship, Liane Enkelis Scholarship, C. Thomas Hardin and Mary C. Hardin Scholarship, King/Lott Scholarship, Mary Lou Foy Still and Multimedia Scholarship, Sony’s Photojournalism Scholarship, and the Xan Korman Scholarship.
