Getty Images, in collaboration with Verizon and the National Disability Leadership Alliance (NDLA), has announced a $20,000 creative grant aimed at improving the representation of the disability community in workplace imagery. This initiative seeks to challenge traditional portrayals by focusing on the professional contributions of people with disabilities rather than the often-limited contexts seen in mainstream visual media.
Addressing Representation Gaps in Media
Despite increasing awareness of diversity in visual storytelling, people with disabilities are frequently depicted in domestic or healthcare settings rather than as active professionals. According to Getty Images' VisualGPS research, two out of three Americans believe diverse representation in media fosters better understanding. However, three out of four images featuring people with disabilities place them in healthcare environments, reinforcing limited narratives.
This grant, titled Disability in Focus: Navigating Work Life, is designed to support photographers and videographers in breaking these stereotypes. It builds on the success of The Disability Collection, a 2018 initiative from Getty Images, Verizon, and NDLA that has grown to include over 12,000 curated images and videos portraying people with disabilities in a more authentic manner.
“The global workforce has evolved significantly, yet the stories of the disability community in professional roles remain underrepresented,” said Dr. Rebecca Swift, Senior Vice President of Creative at Getty Images. “This grant is an opportunity for creators to challenge stereotypes and showcase the vital contributions, leadership, and innovation that people with disabilities bring to workplaces around the world.”
Grant Details
Open to global applicants, the Disability in Focus: Navigating Work Life grant will be awarded as follows:
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First place: $10,000
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Second place: $7,000
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Third place: $3,000
Winners will be selected by a panel of creative industry professionals and disability activists, including:
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Samantha Tokita – Award-winning photographer and 2024 grant recipient
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Jen White Johnson – Artist and activist
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Tom Olin – Social documentarian
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Maria Town – President and CEO, American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD)
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Fred Moltz – Head of Accessibility, Verizon
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Sarah Foster – Senior Creative Content Manager, Getty Images
Application Process
To apply, photographers and videographers must submit:
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A portfolio showcasing existing work
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A project proposal (200-500 words) along with a mood board
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A short essay outlining the creative approach
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Digital submissions in English
The application deadline is March 7, 2025, with winners announced the week of April 28, 2025.
Additional Benefits
Grant recipients will have the opportunity to license their work through Getty Images at a 100% royalty rate for content created within their project. Additionally, they will receive mentorship from Getty Images’ art directors and a feature on Getty Images’ Creative Insights website, as well as promotion through social media channels.
For more information or to apply, visit: Getty Images Grants.
