WikiPortraits, a novel initiative launched in early 2024, is on a mission to remedy the persistent issue of substandard celebrity photographs on Wikipedia. Recognized as one of the Internet's most frequented sites, Wikipedia benefits from countless volunteer contributions but struggles with outdated and often low-quality images. This initiative aims to showcase notable individuals in a more flattering light and present higher-quality visuals for the public.
Many of the existing images on Wikipedia lack professionalism and appeal, prompting discussions among dedicated editors and enthusiasts. Kevin Payravi, a co-founder of WikiPortraits, underscored this problem. “The issue of terrible photos has always lingered in our minds as Wikipedia contributors,” he remarked during an event in Austin, Texas, where he and Jennifer Lee, another founder, operated a photo booth for festival attendees.
The project recruits photographers with a passion for Wikipedia and photography, providing them with accreditation to access events like film festivals and conferences. By allowing volunteers to capture new images, WikiPortraits seeks to replace outdated visuals and improve the overall quality of Wikipedia content.
With 55 photographers committed to the project so far, varying from dedicated enthusiasts to professionals looking to expand their portfolios, the team is making strides. Bryan Berlin, a high school photography teacher and stand-up comedian, is among the contributors. He expressed his excitement about enhancing the quality of information available on Wikipedia, emphasizing, “Having a better photo provides better context for users accessing the site.”
The project has already influenced several notable Wikipedia pages, replacing low-quality images with newly captured photographs from high-profile events like Sundance and the Edinburgh Festival. Frank Sun, who actively participates in WikiPortraits, recounted an uplifting experience with actress Laetitia Dosch, who delighted at the chance to update her outdated image.
Looking ahead, WikiPortraits aims to recruit additional photographers globally while also focusing on underrepresented individuals within the entertainment industry. The team dreams of gaining credentials for high-profile events such as the Met Gala and the Oscars, which they believe would solidify their presence in enhancing Wikipedia's visual identity.
As the project progresses, it remains focused on improving how Wikipedia represents diverse individuals, ensuring that everyone has a chance to be seen in a more favorable light.
Many of the existing images on Wikipedia lack professionalism and appeal, prompting discussions among dedicated editors and enthusiasts. Kevin Payravi, a co-founder of WikiPortraits, underscored this problem. “The issue of terrible photos has always lingered in our minds as Wikipedia contributors,” he remarked during an event in Austin, Texas, where he and Jennifer Lee, another founder, operated a photo booth for festival attendees.
The project recruits photographers with a passion for Wikipedia and photography, providing them with accreditation to access events like film festivals and conferences. By allowing volunteers to capture new images, WikiPortraits seeks to replace outdated visuals and improve the overall quality of Wikipedia content.
With 55 photographers committed to the project so far, varying from dedicated enthusiasts to professionals looking to expand their portfolios, the team is making strides. Bryan Berlin, a high school photography teacher and stand-up comedian, is among the contributors. He expressed his excitement about enhancing the quality of information available on Wikipedia, emphasizing, “Having a better photo provides better context for users accessing the site.”
The project has already influenced several notable Wikipedia pages, replacing low-quality images with newly captured photographs from high-profile events like Sundance and the Edinburgh Festival. Frank Sun, who actively participates in WikiPortraits, recounted an uplifting experience with actress Laetitia Dosch, who delighted at the chance to update her outdated image.
Looking ahead, WikiPortraits aims to recruit additional photographers globally while also focusing on underrepresented individuals within the entertainment industry. The team dreams of gaining credentials for high-profile events such as the Met Gala and the Oscars, which they believe would solidify their presence in enhancing Wikipedia's visual identity.
As the project progresses, it remains focused on improving how Wikipedia represents diverse individuals, ensuring that everyone has a chance to be seen in a more favorable light.
