Freelance Photographer for Open Eye Hub Wigan & Leigh
Closing date: 23 January 2026, 23.59 | Fee: £3000 | Delivery: March–September 2026
About the Project
Humans of Wigan is an ambitious documentary photography project celebrating the diverse faces and stories of Wigan Borough. Inspired by Daniel Meadows’ Free Photographic Omnibus and Humans of New York, we will create a mobile photography studio that travels across the borough offering free professional portraits and capturing personal narratives. The project will culminate in a public outdoor exhibition and contribute to updating local photographic and oral history archives.
Open Eye Hub (Wigan PhotoHub project) is a bold initiative to establish Wigan as a regional photography hub and build an inclusive photography movement that enables communities to authentically document and share their own narratives. Developed in partnership with Open Eye Gallery and Wigan Council, the Hub champions socially engaged photography as a tool for creative learning, collaboration, and visibility for local talent—while connecting Wigan & Leigh’s stories with national and international conversations.
The programme includes:
- Two major socially engaged photography commissions exploring identity, place, and social change.
- Public exhibitions in unexpected spaces across the borough and in the new PhotoHub space at Leigh Town Hall.
- Talks, workshops, and portfolio reviews co-curated with the community to inspire and develop local photographers.
- A Career Accelerator Fellowship providing mentorship and hands-on experience for emerging talent.
Open Eye Hub builds on Open Eye Gallery’s national leadership in socially engaged photography. We work collaboratively with local people, artists, and communities to co-create projects that challenge stereotypes and celebrate authentic stories.
Through this work, the Hub aims to create a vibrant, connected photography ecosystem—one that empowers underrepresented voices, nurtures creative careers, and positions Wigan as a pioneering cultural destination in the North.
Role Responsibilities
- Strong technical skills in portrait photography and storytelling.
- Socially engaged photographers with experience in collaborative practice.
- Ability to work with diverse communities and co-create narratives.
- Commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.
- Access to professional equipment suitable for pop-up studio sessions, including a camera, tripod(s), and backdrop. A small stipend may be available to support the purchase or hire of specific items on a case-by-case basis.
- Someone who is personable with interview experience, who can capture stories beyond the lens.
Commission Includes
- 5 pop-up photography events at key locations across Wigan (shopping centres, libraries, cafes).
- High-quality portraits and accompanying stories.
- Contribution to outdoor exhibition (Summer 2026).
- Digital content for Wigan PhotoHub platforms.
Why Apply?
- Be part of a borough-wide photography movement.
- Work alongside Open Eye Gallery and Wigan Council.
- Contribute to a lasting cultural legacy.
- Professional fee + expenses covered.
How to Apply
Send the following to jobs@openeye.org.uk with the email subject Humans of Wigan Photography Commission:
- CV and portfolio (max 10 images)
- Complete Anonymous online equal opportunities form
- Two references
- Cover letter with answers to the following questions (written or as short video/voice notes, 2–3 minutes max per question):
- What does socially engaged photography mean to you, and how would you apply this approach to Humans of Wigan? (250 words)
(We want to understand your philosophy and how you connect with communities.) - Tell us about a project where you worked collaboratively with a community or group. What did you learn from that experience? (250 words)
(This helps us gauge your experience and adaptability) - How would you make the pop-up studio welcoming and inclusive for people from all walks of life? (250 words)
(We’re looking for practical ideas and sensitivity to diverse needs) - Please explain how you would approach this project.
Answer Format: Applicants can submit written responses or record answers as short videos or voice notes (2–3 minutes max per question). This option makes the process more accessible and allows applicants to express themselves naturally.
Email: jobs@openeye.org.uk
Post: Open Eye Gallery, 19 Mann Island, Liverpool Waterfront, Liverpool, L3 1BP.
Please let us know in your application email if you have any access requirements.
Closing Date: 23 January 2026, 23.59.
Interviews: 11 February 2026.
Start Date: Late February 2026.
We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are particularly keen to hear from people of colour, those living with disabilities and from the Wigan area.