War Zone Approved brings together passionate photographers who crave adventure and the opportunity to earn a professional certificate while documenting the realities of war and conflict zones.
Our mission is to create a safe and supportive community for amateur, professional and all aspiring photographers, offering them the chance to explore the most intense environments while capturing powerful images that tell the stories of our time.
WHY JOIN US?
-
Excitement & Adventure: Experience the thrill of documenting conflict zones, where every moment is filled with adrenaline and every shot tells a crucial story.
-
Travel Opportunities: Explore exotic and challenging locations around the world, from urban ruins to desolate battlefields, alongside a group of like-minded adventurers.
-
Community & Camaraderie: Join a supportive collective of photographers who share your passion for capturing the human condition in the most extreme situations. Together, we ensure greater safety and share unforgettable experiences.
-
Exhibit Your Work: We provide an established platform for each War Zone Approved photographer to showcase their work so they can receive the recognition and praise they deserve for their hard work and technical abilities.
-
Professional Certification: Gain valuable skills and credentials through our certification program. We provide training to ensure you are technically proficient and prepared to handle the demands of war photography.
WE WELCOME ALL VIDEOGRAPHERS, JOURNALISTS,
FILMMAKERS AND STORYTELLERS.
MEMBERSHIP OPTIONS AND BENEFITS
We offer three comprehensive membership options designed to provide you with unparalleled opportunities and support in your journey as a war photographer.
Academy Membership: $99
*Access to our online resources, training, and weekly lessons
*Access to War Photographer Wednesday weekly Zoom meetings with staff and guests
*Eligibility to submit photos for Photo of the Week.
Yearly Membership $999
*War Zone Approved Certificate
*Domestic expeditions: Travel within the U.S. with staff and other members to events of historic and cultural significance
*Showcase opportunities: Your name and portfolio will be listed on our website
*Community Access: Inclusion to War Zone Approved online community for networking, support and collaboration
*War Zone Approved press pass and credentials
*All Academy membership benefits
Lifetime Membership: $9999
*War Zone Approved Diploma
*International Expeditions: Priority placement on international expeditions to real conflict zones, providing you with unique and impactful photo opportunities.
*One-on-One Mentoring: Personalized mentoring sessions with seasoned war photographers to guide your professional development.
*Exclusive Assignments: Access to high-risk zones and special assignments that offer rare and powerful photographic opportunities.
*Safety Gear Package: Receive a personalized safety gear and equipment package tailored to your needs in the field
*All Annual and Academy benefits.
MEMBERSHIP FAQs
Q: How can I be a member and join the adventure?
A: We have three types of memberships. Academy, Annual, or Lifetime.
Q: What if I’m a beginner photographer?
A: Our Yearly Membership is perfect for beginners.
It provides access to essential resources and training to help you build a solid foundation in war photography. During the year, you will attend virtal meetings, be given outside resources, reading materials, you will share your work, learn from others, be a part of our collective team of friends and adventurers. You will earn a professional certificate and receive War Zone Approved credentials that can be used throughout your professional and photographic career.
Photographers that are interested in going overseas and into active war zones or conflict zones, are required to be Lifetime members. We perform an exceptional amount of advance work, embassy coordination, logistics and safety protocols. Therefore require total commitment to this type of expedition.
Q: How often are expeditions organized?
A: Domestic expeditions are organized quarterly, with additional special assignments and projects throughout the year. We respond to culturally relevant and historically significant events. So be ready.
Q: What safety measures are in place for expeditions?
A: Safety is our top priority. All expeditions are led by experienced personnel that have worked domestically and internationally for years, many for various U.S. government agencies. Our trips are planned and vetted by former and current U.S. Department of State officials and we coordinate directly with American organizations in-country including US Embassies. Lifetime Members will be asked to self administer a standard military physical fitness test (in case of evacuation). We will provide specific recommendations for packing lists and equipment. Essentially, bring only what you can carry.
Q: What is the upcoming expedition schedule?
A: We are currently setting a program schedule.
Annual members firstly will visit the southern border to witness the immigration crisis. We are constantly monitoring significant protests, rallies, natural disasters and potential domestic events.
Lifetime members are currently traveling to Ukraine and Israel.
Q: Do I need any specific camera equipment or set of technical skills to join?
A: No. The answer truly depends on your personal skills and professional goals. We have weekly virtual meetings to begin the process of knowing each member and understanding their technical skills and levels of experience in combative situations. We build trust and create bonds with our members both virtually and in person. Our staff is excited to offer this type of experience and professional certification.
