World Press Photo

What have we done?

World Press Photo creates spaces where photography helps people understand the world in a more thoughtful way. For their 70th anniversary exhibition, they asked us to help audiences slow down and look at familiar images with fresh eyes. We developed a set of films that unpack how stories have been told, who has told them, and what shifts are happening now. Each piece invites viewers into a quiet moment of reflection about the power and responsibility behind a single photograph.
Client
World Press Photo
Deliverables
Exhibition videos, social media reels
Services
Countries worked in
Liberia, Ghana, South Africa, United States of America, United Kingdom

Why this story needed telling...

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World Press Photo came to us with a simple but important goal: create original video pieces for the anniversary exhibition that open up conversation about how images shape the way we see the world. They wanted visitors to step into the bigger story behind the archive and understand how representation, ethics, and authorship have evolved. The videos needed to live comfortably inside the exhibition while also working on social platforms to reach a wider audience.

Makmende approach

We designed three films that each stand on their own, with their own tone and rhythm, while still feeling connected to the exhibition. We worked with photographers remotely in their own spaces, guided expert conversations online, and filmed a long-form interview with Sir Don McCullin, a photography icon. Across all pieces we created room for honesty, nuance, and self-reflection. Our role was to shape the story and guide the creative process while giving space to the people closest to the work. This approach kept the storytelling grounded and aligned with the spirit of the exhibition.

Outcome

The final films became key touchpoints in the exhibition and across World Press Photo’s digital channels. Together they help audiences understand how photography has shaped public perception and why new perspectives matter. The project also brought together photographers and experts from different regions, strengthening relationships and opening new conversations inside the industry. Most importantly, the videos offer a calm and considered entry point for viewers to reflect on the stories we inherit and the ones we can choose to tell next.

Working towards these SDG’s

Peace, justice and strong institutions SDG
Reduced inequalities SDG
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