Frequently Asked Questions

PhotoAnthology ensures accuracy and depth through a rigorous, research-driven process that is human-led and AI-assisted. Our team surveys books, essays, reviews, interviews, and talks, then uses AI to organize findings and flag inconsistencies. A second review checks claims against sources, while a professional editor and curator refine every detail for clarity and historical fidelity. Each project is further validated by multiple contributors and supported with contextual metadata that situates it within photography’s broader history.

PhotoAnthology Foundation is a registered non-profit foundation in Bulgaria, operating for public benefit under the Bulgarian Non-Profit Legal Entities Act. Founded by Valery Poshtarov, it is led by an international team of contributors and volunteers and supported by an advisory board of recognized professionals in photography, curation, and research.

PhotoAnthology started with its founder’s support and now functions as a non-profit sustained by donations and program funding.

PhotoAnthology emphasizes entire photography projects because they provide a deeper understanding of the photographer’s intent, vision, and creative process. By focusing on projects, we can explore the broader contextual framework which might be lost when viewing individual images in isolation. This approach allows us to highlight the evolution of a photographer’s body of work and its impact within the larger narrative of photography as an art form. Our detailed metadata system further enriches this perspective by grouping projects based on contextual elements like genres, themes, techniques, influences, and historical periods, creating a more interconnected and meaningful exploration of photography.

At PhotoAnthology, we aim not to act as the final arbiter of a project's merit but to highlight works that have already been institutionally validated. For a project to be included, its significance in the history of photography should be demonstrated through recognition such as major exhibitions, publications, or awards. This ensures that each project reflects a meaningful contribution to the art and evolution of photography.

PhotoAnthology focuses on photography projects from the perspective of photography as an art form. While almost all genres can be included, projects must be validated through institutional support from cultural institutions, not social media popularity or mainstream media exposure. We do not include derivative works such as found photography or manipulated images created from another photographer’s work, as we are committed to preserving the photographer-image-project relationship. Additionally, we exclude promotional, commercial, or propaganda projects commissioned without artistic intent, and projects lacking cohesive vision or a defined theme.

Some famous projects may not yet be included due to limited access to resources, copyright restrictions, or ongoing research. We continuously work to expand the archive and welcome collaborations to fill these gaps.

Yes, photographers can submit their projects for review through this link.

Contributors can support the platform by submitting new information, correcting inaccuracies, or providing resources through a structured submission process. If you’re interested in participating, please contact us for more details. You can also support our mission by making a donation.

Yes, PhotoAnthology collaborates with photography institutions—museums, galleries, festivals, publishers, and awarding bodies—by creating dedicated institutional profiles that document their curatorial and editorial influence across photography history. These records present their endorsed projects in a structured and permanent format, offering visibility and long-term recognition for their cultural contributions.

Yes, you can reference PhotoAnthology’s original text and analysis for non-commercial purposes with proper credit. For images, which belong to the photographers or respective copyright holders, you must contact the copyright owner directly for any reuse. Please refer to our Copyright Policy for more details.

As a non-profit foundation, we are dedicated to making the art of photography more accessible, while protecting the rights of its creators. We follow a robust Copyright Policy, seeking permissions whenever possible and adhering to fair dealing and fair use principles, with full respect for photographers’ rights and artistic integrity.

Yes, photographers can request the removal of their projects by contacting us directly. Each request will be carefully reviewed to ensure it aligns with our commitment to respecting photographers' rights and the platform's mission of cultural preservation