Fujifilm GFX Challenge Grant Program 2025 – Tips from a previous winner

In 2023, Cape Town-based Jodi Windvogel was the first South African announced as a Fujifilm GFX Challenge Grant Program recipient, for her project “The Body at Risk”.  We chatted to her to hear what this meant to her as a photographer, while she also shares some tips for those looking to enter this year’s Grant Program.

What did it mean to you to be awarded a Global Grant for the GFX Challenge Grant Program 2023?

Receiving the Global Grant was truly life-changing. It was the first award I had ever received, and coincidentally, the first time South African photographers were eligible to apply. So it felt deeply significant to represent my country.

I had been developing the concept for my project (The Body at Risk) for over three years, so being selected affirmed not only the importance of the work itself but also that the experiences of those affected by gender-based violence were being acknowledged and taken seriously on a global platform. It meant the world to know that this story mattered beyond borders.

What would you tell any photographers/videographers looking to enter this year’s GFX Challenge Grant Program?

Start with a strong concept that is close to your heart – one that is well-researched, timely and meaningful. Ask yourself: why this story, why now and why you? Let your proposal reflect your commitment and the urgency of the narrative. The panel is not just looking for beautiful images; they’re looking for work that moves, educates and sparks dialogue. Be honest, passionate and prepared to immerse yourself in the process.

Did the grant manage to open any doors or create further possibilities?

Absolutely. First and foremost, it allowed me to fully dedicate myself to a project I had long been dreaming of but hadn’t yet been able to begin. Although the project is ongoing, the grant enabled me to build a strong foundation and create a compelling body of work.

That in turn opened new opportunities since I’ve since been shortlisted and selected for other prestigious grants and awards. The recognition from Fujifilm also signalled to others that I am capable of managing and delivering on funded projects, which has been invaluable in building trust and momentum.

You also travelled to Japan for the opening of the exhibition. Tell us more about your time there and seeing your work as large prints.

Wow, what an unforgettable experience. Visiting Japan for the opening exhibition was a dream come true. I got to meet the other global winners, engage with the Fujifilm team and see my images beautifully printed and exhibited at scale. There’s a deeply gratifying feeling in seeing your work presented in that way – it made everything feel real. It was a moment of pride and reflection, and I’ll carry the experience with me always.

What did you think of the GFX gear you shot with?

I used the Fujifilm GFX100S II with the GF32-64mmF4 and the GF55mmF1.7 lenses, and both were phenomenal. They gave me the flexibility I needed while working across varied locations, from intimate interiors to wide open landscapes. The image quality was nothing short of exceptional, and as a hybrid shooter, I was equally impressed by the cinematic quality of the video footage. I felt reassured that my visuals would meet the highest standards, which allowed me to focus completely on the story I was telling. The GFX system truly elevated my work.

 Find more of Jodi’s work here:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jodiwindvogel/
Website: https://jodiwindvogel.format.com/
Fujifilm Take Ten: https://fujifilm-x.co.za/take-ten-jodi-windvogel/

IMAGES FROM THE BODY AT RISK

Mitchells Plain, Western Cape: C. Isaacs (17) was raped and murdered on 15 March 2020 inside her home. She attended a church service with her mother and sisters that day and had returned home around 9.15 am. Her father was asleep in the home after returning home from working a night shift earlier the day. Later, he would wake to find her body on the couch. ©Jodi Windvogel

Scottsville, Kraaifontein: Mother of three A. Manuel (28) and the three-month pregnant M. van Wyk (27) were shot and killed on 3 February 2020. Community members found the two friends lying next to each other against the wall of the Old Apostolic Church the next morning. ©Jodi Windvogel

Tafelsig, Mitchells Plain: Mother of two, A. Koopman (41), was doused in petrol and set alight by her boyfriend on the 22 March 2024. She tried to escape but collapsed next to a container. She was rushed to hospital but died shortly afterwards. ©Jodi Windvogel