We stand at a point where photography faces extinction. The rapid ascendence of artificial intelligence, the control of visual narratives in news outlets, and the general lack of distinction between authentic images and propaganda gradually affect the medium on all fronts. Amidst this, visual literacy becomes one of the key factors in making photography a respected art form and medium of documentation. And now, it seems Magnum Photos wishes to support this idea with their new initiative, the Collector Cooperative.
Magnum Photos Revives Documentary Photography
Magnum Photos established the Collector Cooperative with the aim of encouraging collectors to support Magnum photographers and their new work. Magnum President Cristina de Middel stated that change in technology and society is gradually turning the medium into an obstacle, especially since we find it difficult to know the veracity of the image. Magnum Photos, which was founded in 1947, was created with the aim of depicting the reality of the world through documentary photography. “The sheer volume of images has become so overwhelming that it often dilutes their impact and purpose,” said de Middel.
To counter such a surge and give Magnum photographers the liberty “to break free from the constraints of news agencies and tell stories with more depth and truth,” the collective will launch an annual print magazine called Magnum Chronicle. It is designed to address current events, which Magnum photographers will document. The first issue will be released in November and will focus on the ongoing election cycle in the United States. The aim is to help independent photojournalists in Magnum Photos, an outlet that documents the world in a highly competitive landscape. “It is a proactive solution that allows us to maintain visibility for the work of Magnum photographers and aligns with the original spirit of Magnum — protecting high-quality, independent reporting. If the media cannot host our stories, we have created our own platform, which I hope will have a life as long as Magnum’s,” de Middel explains. Thus, the magazine will provide micro and macro views of broader themes shaping American society.
How Collector Cooperatives Will Help Supporters
Magnum Photos has designed the cooperative to serve as a bridge between the organization and its supports. While individuals can apply to become founding members of the initiative, the number of seats available is 150 until October 10. Following the deadline, Magnum will select members through an invite.
Some of the benefits that support gets include:
Voting on the annual theme for the Magnum Chronicle.
Invitation to Collector Cooperative annual gathering.
Receive an edition of the magazine.
A bespoke book edition, which is personalized and will be sent to 500 members.
Special discounts are offered on Magnum Photos’ online store and access to exhibition openings.
“We are trying to find new ways to protect the meaningful, independent, and trustworthy photojournalism that is integral to Magnum in an age in which this is becoming more and more difficult to sustain,” de Middel explains. “Without the Collector Cooperative, the Chronicle wouldn’t be able to exist.”
Considering Bruce Gilden recently went on record saying he will be “broke in a year,” an effort like this is a small step in helping photographers sustain a living. Despite all the controversy around his approach, Gilden has self-funded his projects, which only proves how photography is a difficult career when it comes to paying your rent. If a legendary Magnum star finds it hard to get funding for his projects, one can only imagine what emerging artists must be going through. The Collectors Cooperative is shining lighting on a critical problem that is persistent in photography, but it remains to be seen whether their efforts will actually turn into positive results.
For more information on the Collector Cooperative, visit Magnum Photos’ website.
