Insights from an NGO Photography Workshop

Photographer Heulwyn Roberts shares her experience as a humanitarian photographer in Zambia

A couple of times a year, we run an NGO photography workshop in Africa. It’s a program that welcomes photographers from around the world to volunteer their time and document the work of grassroots charities in African communities. The goal is twofold; we provide worthwhile social impact organizations databases of quality images that they can use to promote their cause, and we offer a unique opportunity to passionate photographers to do something impactful with their craft. In August this year, we ran an NGO photography workshop in Livingstone, Zambia – and one of our volunteer photographers was Heulwyn Robers, a UK-based professional photographer. (A little note – you don’t necessarily need to be a professional photographer to join this program!) We asked Heulwyn about her experience, and she was kind enough to answer our questions – and to share some of her stunning work.

All images by Heulwyn Roberts

What motivated you to embark on a humanitarian photography trip to Zambia?

My motivation stemmed from a desire to merge my passion for photography with a commitment to social impact. I wanted to use my skills to tell stories that matter—stories of resilience, hope, and positive change. Zambia, with its vibrant communities and pressing social issues, presented a perfect opportunity to immerse myself in a culture while contributing to meaningful causes. I was eager to learn from grassroots organizations and help amplify their voices through my lens.

How do you see the role of photography in the NGO world? Has this changed during your stay in Zambia?

Photography plays a crucial role in the NGO world by bringing visibility to important issues and humanizing the stories behind them. It can evoke emotions, drive engagement, and inspire action, making it a powerful tool for advocacy. During my time in Zambia, I saw firsthand how images can transform narratives, providing nonprofits with the visual content needed to raise awareness and funds. This experience reinforced my belief in photography as a catalyst for change, highlighting the responsibility we have as photographers to represent subjects authentically and respectfully.

Find out more about our NGO photography workshops

Can you describe any highlights from photographing the various nonprofits?

One standout moment was photographing the incredible bond between the animals and the dedicated volunteers at ZAWS animal shelter. Their compassion and commitment to the animals were truly inspiring, and I felt privileged to capture these heartfelt interactions. Another memorable experience was at the girls’ safe house, where I documented the 3 of the young women engaging in daily chores. Their laughter and resilience shone through, illustrating the strength of their community and the positive impact of a supportive environment. These moments reinforced my belief in the transformative power of connection and support in grassroots initiatives.

Similarly, what were challenges in documenting nonprofit projects?

A significant challenge was navigating the complex dynamics of trust and consent. Building rapport with community members took time, and I often had to be patient to ensure that I was capturing their stories in a way that felt comfortable for them. Additionally, working in diverse environments sometimes meant adapting quickly to changing conditions, whether it was lighting, weather, or the flow of events. Balancing my creative vision with the realities of the projects required flexibility and sensitivity.

Read about the experience of a photographer who joined our NGO photography program in South Africa

Has this experience changed you as a photographer?

Absolutely. This experience has deepened my understanding of storytelling and the responsibility that comes with it. I’ve learned to approach my photography with a greater sense of purpose, focusing not just on aesthetics but on the stories behind each image. I now strive to capture moments that reflect authenticity and dignity, understanding that each photograph holds the potential to inspire action and change. This journey has encouraged me to view photography not just as a craft, but as a vital form of communication and advocacy.

Upcoming opportunity to become a volunteer photographer in South Africa

If you’re interested in joining our nonprofit photography workshop, we’d love to see your application! You don’t need to be a pro – you just need to have a good camera, a solid understanding of how to use it, and some experience in photography. Our next opportunity is an NGO photography workshop in South Africa. It’s a 2-week program focused on documenting the work of grassroots nonprofits in communities near Cape Town and Stellenbosch. You’ll be guided by Anna Lusty and Noortje van Wulfen, two humanitarian photographers who will offer guidance and tutoring throughout your stay. We look forward to seeing your application!

Find out more about what to expect from joining a humanitarian photography workshop in Africa