OPPORTUNITIES
Martin Parr speaking at the opening of Photo Oxford 2025. Photo: Paul Bullivant
Photo Oxford is a progressive and creative charity mounting a biennial international photography festival in a range of historic venues. We also curate and promote exhibitions and commission work by photographers and photographic artists. We have a range of opportunities available to get involved in the festival from Open Calls and exhibitions, to volunteering and joining our board of trustees.
become A TRUSTEE
become A TRUSTEE
TRUSTEE OPPORTUNITIES
Photo Oxford is governed by a supportive group of trustees who meet regularly to plan, fund and organise the biennial Photo Oxford festivals. Our next festival will be in autumn 2027.
Photo Oxford is recruiting for a Chair of Trustees
Closing date: 31st July 2026
Photo Oxford, a registered charity, is seeking a new Chair to help lead its internationally recognised photography festival into its next phase of development.
Photo Oxford is a progressive arts organisation that presents a biennial international photography festival across a variety of venues in Oxford. We curate exhibitions, commission new work by photographers and photographic artists, and develop on-going outreach programmes that engage under-represented communities.
Working closely with Director Katy Barron and fellow trustees, the Chair will provide strategic leadership as planning begins for the 2027 festival.
We are looking for an experienced leader with expertise in charity governance, fundraising, or the cultural sector, together with a strong commitment to the values and ambitions of Photo Oxford.
Key qualities and experience include:
Strategic thinking and leadership
Understanding of governance and risk management
Experience in the photography and/or arts sector
Effective meeting chairing and communication skills
Collaborative working within diverse teams
Creative fundraising and sector networking
Commitment to inclusion and public engagement
Resilience, perspective, and a sense of humour
Photo Oxford Trustee Tegan Rush at the 2025 festival Welcome Hub. Photo: Aniella Weinberger Photography
Board meetings are held in hybrid format approximately six times a year in Oxford, alongside occasional working group meetings and events.
The festival is funded by grants and donations from a range of sources including:private trusts, patrons, friends and commercial sponsorship. We generate income from ticket sales and an international ‘open call’ to photographers and photographic artists, resulting in an exhibition of exciting new work.
For more information see our detailed role description.
For a conversation about the role or to apply, please send a current CV and covering letter (maximum 500 words) to Katy Barron at katy@photooxford.org
For further information on Photo Oxford, take a look through our website or The Charity Commission.
VOLUNTEER
VOLUNTEER
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Become a Volunteer for Photo Oxford 2027 and join a valued community of people who share a passion for photography and its power to inspire, challenge perspectives, and spark meaningful change.
As a volunteer, you will play an important role in helping bring the festival to life. Your time and enthusiasm will help us present exhibitions, events, and public programmes, ensuring that photography continues to thrive in Oxford and reach audiences from near and far.
Volunteers are at the heart of the festival. You will have the opportunity to gain behind-the-scenes insight into how an international photography festival operates, meet artists and curators, and be part of a creative and welcoming team.
Whether you are passionate about photography, interested in arts and culture, or simply keen to get involved in a vibrant community event, we would love to hear from you.
Volunteers film during the tour of Paddy Summerfield’s The Camera Helps at the Weston Library.
Photo: David Stumpp
Join us in making Photo Oxford 2027 an inspiring and memorable festival for everyone.
Gallery Invigilators - Welcome visitors and help create engaging experiences in our exhibition spaces.
Help Desk Coordinators - Provide information and assistance to festival visitors.
Portfolio Review Support - Help coordinate our renowned one-to-one portfolio reviews with photography experts.
Photo/Video Support - Help document the festival by photographing installations or videoing interviews with participants.
FLEXIBLE COMMITMENT
We understand everyone has different availability! We're looking for volunteers who can contribute flexibly across the festival dates, with opportunities to fit around your schedule.
WHAT YOU’LL GAIN
Networking opportunities - Connect with photographers, curators, and arts professionals.
Certificate of participation - Perfect for portfolios and CVs.
Expense reimbursement - Local travel expenses covered.
Behind-the-scenes access - Experience a major photography festival from the inside.
Professional development - Gain valuable experience in arts administration and event management.
WHO WE’RE LOOKING FOR
People of all experience levels are welcome — whether you’re a photography enthusiast, student, arts professional, or simply curious about photography and culture.
Aged 18 or over.
Interested in photography, creativity, and the arts.
Friendly, reliable, and enthusiastic about being part of a team.
If you’re interested in volunteering with us, please do get in touch: admin@photooxford.org