Hold Still portrait project kicks off

Created by the Duchess of Cambridge and the National Portrait Gallery, the project seeks your lockdown portraits.

Featured image Jack Dodsley, 70, dances with a carer in PPE. Credit: Tom Maddick/SWNS

In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Hold Still community photography project aims to capture the spirit and feelings of the nation as we continue to deal with the virus.

The Duchess and the National Portrait Gallery are inviting people from across the UK to submit a photographic portrait they have taken during lockdown. Participants are also encouraged to provide a short written submission to outline the experiences and emotions of their subject. The project will focus on three core themes: helpers and heroes, your new normal and acts of kindness.

The Duchess, patron of the National Portrait Gallery, said: “We’ve all been struck by some of the incredible images we’ve seen, which have given us an insight into the experiences and stories of people across the country. Some desperately sad images showing the human tragedy of this pandemic and other uplifting pictures showing people coming together to support those more vulnerable.

Hold Still aims to capture a portrait of the nation, the spirit of the nation, what everyone is going through at this time. Photographs reflecting resilience, bravery, kindness – all those things that people are experiencing.”

Submissions are free, open now until 18 June. One hundred shortlisted portraits will then feature in a digital exhibition open to all. A selection of images will also be shown across the UK later in the year.

Each image will be assessed on the emotion and experience it conveys rather than its photographic quality or technical expertise, so photographers of all abilities are encouraged to apply.

For more information or to submit your photos, please visit the National Portrait Gallery website.