What is #ProjectScouted all about?

There is no dearth of talent in Durban and many undiscovered gems yearn for an opportunity to display their talent. Owner of Lee Folkard Photography, Lee Folkard, had this thought in mind when creating his annual Project. There has been immense growth since the first Project, “Project i”, in 2010 to the second cycle of #ProjectScouted being held this year. Improving and expanding on the concept that proved to be a winning one in 2014, #ProjectScouted Cycle 2 now has a following of proportions uncommon in Durban.

The Project’s main players are of course the girls who are chosen to participate, but the behind-the-scenes key figures are the scouts themselves – as the name of the Project suggests. These scouts, chosen from all around Durban, discover girls who show unique photographic allure in front of the camera. Their main port of call to finding these girls is social media – Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram – where girls can get the attention of the scouts by hashtagging their most striking images with #ProjectScouted.

If a scout thinks a girl has what it takes to be a part of the biggest photography challenge in Durban, they choose them as a part of their team. Girls also have the opportunity to be spotted by scouts anywhere in Durban as our scouts take their role very seriously and are always on the lookout for that distinctive girl. There will also be an open casting giving girls another chance to be selected to participate.

#ProjectScouted is a celebration of the female aesthetic. This is a platform for beauty to be showcased through captivating and intriguing images shot by the best photographers in Durban whilst illustrating that there is not only one type of beauty. The Project is focused on the enrichment of young women by providing them with the opportunity of an unmatched experience while gaining exposure and meeting unique people. #ProjectScouted is also a display for exceptional local photographers, designers, hair stylists, makeup artists and other creatives. The final product of the Project is much more than beautiful images; it is an experience.

All photoshoots and events are open to the public free of charge, so take note of the following important dates:

o   13 February 2015* - The deadline for scouting and participants’ forms to be submitted

o   21 February 2015* - Open casting (venue to be confirmed)

o   28 February 2015* - Phase One (the first photoshoot and launch of the Project – venue to be confirmed)

*All dates are subject to change

All information pertaining to the Project will be available on the blog. Also check out the FAQ post for more details. Spread the #ProjectScouted word and keep hashtagging!