Mentorships are awarded as part of the annual grant application process.

STRUCTURE & EXPECTATIONS

Mentees will be paired with mentors after being selected, and individual mentees may work with one or more mentors during the course of the year-long program, beginning in October.

The expectation is that the grantee and mentor collaborate together to form a personalized plan for the grantee for the year to aid in goals specific to them. This may include but is not limited to:

• development of a personalized photo project or photo story; honing story-telling skills, with the end result being a set of pictures to be published at the end of the term
• structuring a more efficient work flow
• perfecting their portfolio, website, resume; help with Interview skills
• networking and introductions to others on the DPPF advisory board or within the industry who might aid in advancing their career
• discussions and instruction about equipment or technical photographic skills
• assistance with the business side of the job: how to invoice, contracts, etc.
• advice on real work experience: assisting jobs, credentials, coverage of a live event

The DPPF will solicit feedback from both awardees and mentors at regular intervals throughout the year. A member of the DPPF administration will always be available for support for all participants.