Welcome

Umbrage is a platform which champions nonfiction photography that stands in contrast with long-standing historic narratives, codified by the legacies of Western photographic language and storytelling, in keeping with the traditional role of photography as shared history and tool of social reform.

Over the last two decades there has been a decline in independent photojournalism. An earlier period of transition from the analog to the digital saw many socially focused photo agencies, platforms and practitioners struggle to adapt, resulting in a failure to keep pace commercially with the accessible digital archives of larger corporate agencies.

Documentary photography whilst originally conceived as a tool of social reform has since become a form of contemporary art. The move to conceptual approaches and modes of production have developed visual aesthetics which are now more common place in privately funded galleries and institutions. Attempts to inform and inspire a healthy public debate are often overshadowed by a polite neutering, so as to not offend the stakeholders and benefactors of these private spaces.

Umbrage exists to support politically informed and socially engaged photojournalism and documentary photographic practices and practitioners. Over the coming months we will feature stories, projects and photographers which are urgent, contemporary and necessary.

If you wish to engage with us, suggest or send us work, please use the Contact Us button below.