The Virtual PhotoVogue Portfolio Reviews: A Global Platform for the Next Generation of Photographers
Since the very first edition of the PhotoVogue Festival, the PhotoVogue Portfolio Reviews have been at the heart of PhotoVogue’s mission: creating meaningful opportunities for photographers to connect, grow, and engage in dialogue with some of the most influential voices in the international creative community.
Originally held in person at BASE Milano, the Portfolio Reviews underwent a significant transformation during the COVID-19 pandemic, moving entirely online. What could have been perceived as a limitation became a unique opportunity for expansion and inclusion.
The virtual format allowed PhotoVogue to bring together an international panel of experts while making the program accessible to artists from every corner of the world. By removing geographical barriers, the initiative enabled more photographers to participate, regardless of where they live, offering them the chance to engage directly with leading professionals in the field.
Supporting Talent Beyond Boundaries
At the core of the Portfolio Reviews is a fundamental belief: creative talent should be nurtured through access, mentorship, and meaningful dialogue, not determined by financial resources, geographical location, or professional networks.
Conceived by Alessia Glaviano, Head of Global PhotoVogue and Director of the PhotoVogue Festival, the PhotoVogue Virtual Portfolio Reviews embody PhotoVogue’s long-standing commitment to democratizing access to the international photography community and fostering meaningful dialogue across the global photographic landscape. Since its inception, Glaviano has continuously expanded and refined the program, bringing together an increasingly diverse and distinguished network of reviewers, including editors, curators, gallerists, book publishers, educators, collectors, and other leading voices from across the international photography ecosystem. Developed in close collaboration with Rica Cerbarano, Portfolio Reviews Coordinator, whose vision, expertise, and longstanding dedication have been instrumental to the program’s evolution, together with Carrington Williams, Virtual Event Producer, and Maria Spadoni Battistoni, PhotoVogue Visual Editor, the Portfolio Reviews continue to evolve each year, creating ever more meaningful opportunities for photographers worldwide.
For this reason, PhotoVogue remains committed to creating a more inclusive global community, providing artists with concrete and free opportunities to develop their creative vision and professional paths.
Over the years, the Portfolio Reviews have become one of the most anticipated initiatives within the PhotoVogue community: a space where artists can present their work, receive thoughtful and constructive feedback, and connect with peers who are navigating similar stages of their creative journeys.
To date, more than 380 artists have participated in the Virtual PhotoVogue Portfolio Reviews, confirming the lasting value and impact of an initiative dedicated to supporting emerging photographic talent.
The significance of the experience is reflected in the words of the photographers who have taken part.
Photographer Lisa Marie Asubonteng shares:
“The wisdom and invaluable feedback I’ve received have been a true blessing, reaffirming my determination to persevere in my journey as a photographer.”
Similarly, Reiki Zhang describes the Portfolio Reviews as a transformative experience:
“It was an invaluable opportunity that has left a lasting impact on me, both personally and professionally. It has provided me with new perspectives, insightful guidance, and the inspiration to pursue broader horizons in my work.”
How the Virtual PhotoVogue Portfolio Reviews Work
Through PhotoVogue’s open calls, a selection of outstanding artists is invited to participate in free one-on-one virtual portfolio review sessions with a distinguished panel of editors, curators, gallerists, agents, educators, publishers, collectors, and creative professionals from around the world.
