An increasing number of amateur photographers have rallied together under the WikiPortraits project, aiming to replace Wikipedia's subpar images of notable individuals.
### Amateur Photographers Aim to Revitalize Wikipedia's Image Gallery
### Amateur Photographers Aim to Revitalize Wikipedia's Image Gallery
A new initiative seeks to improve Wikipedia's outdated celebrity photographs through volunteer efforts.
WikiPortraits, founded by Kevin Payravi and Jennifer Lee, began its efforts in early 2024, focusing on enhancing the visual representation of celebrities and public figures on the widely-used encyclopedia. The project addresses a prevalent issue; many articles feature outdated or poorly taken images due to copyright restrictions. Professional photographers often retain rights to their work, making it difficult for Wikipedia—mainly sustained by volunteers—to utilize quality images without incurring costs.
To tackle this challenge, the founders initiated a recruiting campaign for volunteer photographers. These volunteers can gain accreditation to attend significant events like film festivals and social gatherings where they can capture fresh, high-quality photos. Lee stated, “Some people are super bothered by the terrible photos on Wikipedia, and want to save the world from them as well.”
The initiative has gained significant traction with volunteers from around the globe. As of now, 55 photographers have actively contributed, including Bryan Berlin, a high school photography teacher from New York, who finds value in improving Wikipedia’s offerings. He highlighted the communal impact of better visual representation, stating, "Having a better photo of someone gives better information for somebody who is accessing Wikipedia."
WikiPortraits aims not only to update images of well-known personalities but to highlight under-represented individuals who previously lacked a visual presence on the platform. Event coverage has already included high-profile occasions such as the Cannes Film Festival and Sundance.
As they look to the future, the team hopes to engage more photographers internationally and secure credentials for top global events like the Met Gala and the Oscars, marking a significant milestone for their cause.
To tackle this challenge, the founders initiated a recruiting campaign for volunteer photographers. These volunteers can gain accreditation to attend significant events like film festivals and social gatherings where they can capture fresh, high-quality photos. Lee stated, “Some people are super bothered by the terrible photos on Wikipedia, and want to save the world from them as well.”
The initiative has gained significant traction with volunteers from around the globe. As of now, 55 photographers have actively contributed, including Bryan Berlin, a high school photography teacher from New York, who finds value in improving Wikipedia’s offerings. He highlighted the communal impact of better visual representation, stating, "Having a better photo of someone gives better information for somebody who is accessing Wikipedia."
WikiPortraits aims not only to update images of well-known personalities but to highlight under-represented individuals who previously lacked a visual presence on the platform. Event coverage has already included high-profile occasions such as the Cannes Film Festival and Sundance.
As they look to the future, the team hopes to engage more photographers internationally and secure credentials for top global events like the Met Gala and the Oscars, marking a significant milestone for their cause.
