Snapper Sought for EIF 2012

Feb 6 2012 | By More

Post of Official Photographer now open

By Thom Dibdin

The Edinburgh International Festival is looking for an up-and-coming snapper to take over the role of official photographer during this summer’s festival.

The post, made possible by a grant from the Morton Charitable Trust, is a huge task, but it is a thoroughly satisfying one according to comments from the previous two incumbents to the Annals. Eoin Carey took on the role in 2011 and spoke to the Annals here: Carey on snapping up at the Hub; Claudine Quinn held the role in 2010, with a review of her work here: Quinn’s Pics Peek Behind EIF Scenes.

Speaking at the launch of his exhibition of pictures from EIF 2011 Carey said: “I have made some great great contacts but things are coming out of the blue. This sort of exposure is unparalleled to someone who has just recently graduated. People are seeing my name and seeing the photos attached to them so it is a great little reportage of work in a fantastic exhibition space.”

He was unable to evaluate the direct effect on his work, but he has become a regular face around Edinburgh’s theatres, documenting theatre-orientated events.

Carey added: “As the official photographer it allowed me a unique perspective on the mechanics of such a huge operation. While I was able to capture images of the performances for media and archive purposes, my proximity to all the technical and administrative facets of the festival led me to witness it as a performance in itself.

“I was provided with access to the venues and theatres, and given carte blanche to document the development of the festival as I saw it. It was both a monumental experience and a tremendous privilege.”

Invaluable addition

Speaking of the post Jackie Westbrook, the EIF’s Director of Marketing and Communications, said: “The talented photographers we’ve been lucky enough to work with over the last few years have made this an invaluable addition to the Festival’s rich archive and made a huge contribution to a more holistic and dynamic view of the Festival’s work for everyone. It is still possible to see our 2011 photographer Eoin’s exhibition throughout the ground floor of The Hub.

“It is of course a very demanding post with the photographer constantly crossing the city, filing photos immediately to press and social media channels, having to work around the clock and with great diplomacy and charm with artists and audiences. But we believe it really does offer an incredible opportunity to anyone looking to make photography their career. We are delighted the Morton Charitable Trust has the vision to support a position which benefits so many.’

The post is open to emerging photographers based in Scotland or with Scottish links, who should send a sample of their portfolio and a covering letter to Susie Burnet (susie.burnet@eif.co.uk) by 17 February 2012.

Further details of the post are on the EIF website: www.eif.co.uk

ENDS

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