Photo editor safety program

Applications open for the Photo Editor Safety Program taking place in October 2026

Photo Editors who regularly commission freelancers are invited to apply for a dedicated safety program organized by World Press Photo in partnership with ACOS Alliance.

Whether commissioning news or features, photo editors make decisions that affect the safety of the photographers and visual journalists they work with, yet are often overlooked when it comes to safety training. The Photo Editor Safety Cohort fills this gap, providing them with the tools they need to safely commission journalistic work and embed a culture of safety within their everyday working practices.

Taking place online every week in October 2026, this free program brings together up to 15 photo editors from around the world for practical learning, peer exchange, and one-to-one coaching.  The program covers digital, legal, physical, and psychological safety, with a focus on safe commissioning, self care, and supporting the safety of freelance photographers.

The Photo Editor Safety Program will be led by Michael Christie and Anita Huynh. Mike is an independent security consultant, and former Head of Safety at Reuters and veteran journalist, who has held roles as Reuters Bureau Chief in Iraq and in the US Southeast and Caribbean.  Anita is the Programs Manager at World Press Photo, where she oversees education and community programs.

The program is offered free and is open to photo editors globally. Those working in volatile and under-represented regions, and those working for under-resourced media, are encouraged to apply. All webinars and coaching will be conducted over zoom in English.

The closing date for applications is Friday 4 September 2026.
More information and apply here.

Program dates and information

  • The closing date for applications is Friday 4 September 2026.
  • Program begins on Thursday 1 October 2026.
  • Meet online every week in October.
  • One on one coaching session to follow.