Photography
As a volunteer, you have a unique opportunity to capture the life, work, and warmth of Gambian people through your lens. You will document real moments — from vibrant streets and schoolyards to hospitals, community centres, and local neighbourhoods. The photographs will support the creation of materials, awareness campaigns, and promotional content for the organisation Za otroke sveta and its partner organisations.
Role
Photography Assistant
Partner Organisation
Za otroke sveta – in cooperation with various local partners (Kanifing General Hospital, schools, kindergartens, and community centres)
Location
Various locations in The Gambia
Type of Travel
Study Visit / Voluntary Work / Group Expedition
Availability
Open year-round
Duration
Minimum 2 weeks; maximum duration is not limited.
Schedule
Mon–Fri, 08:00–16:00; typical volunteer shift 3–5 hours/day
Work Environment
Volunteers will work with the local team and partner organisations to photograph diverse environments — from hospitals and schools to street scenes, families, and children. The work is carried out in cooperation with a mentor or project leader, who will guide you regarding content, privacy, and the ethical aspects of photography.
Why your help matters
Photographs have immense storytelling power. Through your work, you will help connect the world with real stories from Gambia, showcasing the beauty of its people, their strength, hardships, and joy. Your photographs will contribute to greater understanding, empathy, and support for our projects. They will be used in promotional materials, reports, exhibitions, and campaigns that raise awareness about the importance of solidarity and humanitarian efforts.
Role overview (what you’ll do) — under staff supervision
As a photography volunteer, you will be involved in:
• photographing everyday life (streets, markets, families, children, nature),
• documenting the projects of Za otroke sveta and the Travel as a Volunteer program,
• creating portraits of individuals and groups,
• preparing photo reports and photo collections,
• editing, selecting, and tagging images,
• preparing materials for publications, exhibitions, or websites,
• collaborating with other volunteers (teachers, healthcare workers, mentors),
• respecting ethical principles of photography – obtaining consent and maintaining a respectful approach to all individuals, especially children.
Who we’re looking for
• students or amateur photographers interested in gaining experience in a humanitarian setting,
• individuals with a sense of aesthetics, storytelling, and a respectful approach to people,
• responsible and reliable individuals who can work independently and as part of a team,
• those interested in visual communication, social justice, and intercultural dialogue,
• basic knowledge of photography and photo editing (e.g., Lightroom, Canva, Snapseed) is welcome but not required.
How to prepare
It is recommended that before arrival you:
• prepare basic photography equipment (camera, chargers, memory cards, or a phone with a good camera),
• think about the topics you wish to document,
• read guidelines on ethical photography in humanitarian projects,
• bring a notebook or tablet for notes and storing information about the photographs,
• pack light summer clothing, sun and dust protection, and ensure enough storage space for your photos (external drive, USB).
Training and supervision
On the first day, the volunteer coordinator will welcome you, provide all information, and introduce the project and fieldwork guidelines. The organisation’s mentor supervises the content, selection, and use of photographs. In cooperation with members of the local communities, volunteers gain insight into the environment they are photographing, ensuring a respectful and authentic representation at all times.
Program Goals
To create a visual archive of real stories from Gambia, reflecting the life, work, and culture of its people. The aim is to use photography to build understanding, solidarity, and respect between cultures, increase the visibility of humanitarian efforts, and tell stories of beauty, challenges, and the hope carried by the people of Gambia.
Fundraising
Volunteers may help raise funds for printing photographs, organising exhibitions, and creating promotional materials used for awareness-raising and supporting projects in Gambia.
How it works?
Click HERE to learn everything you need to know—in one place—about how volunteering with us works and how to prepare.
Stories of Our Volunteers
Zala Košir
This can’t be started differently than to say that the experience was amazing, and it truly warmed my heart. If you are thinking of going to The Gambia as a volunteer, don’t wait any longer – just go for it. You won’t regret it. I know I should start at the beginning, so I’ll go back now.