Deadline: 31-Jan-2026
The Tom Hanson Photojournalism Award offers a six-week paid internship at The Canadian Press head office in Toronto for early-career Canadian photojournalists. The program provides hands-on national newsroom experience, professional mentorship, and a weekly salary of approximately $875. Applications close on January 31, 2026.
Six-Week Paid Internship at The Canadian Press, Toronto
Overview of the Award
The Tom Hanson Photojournalism Award is a prestigious annual opportunity designed to support Canadian photojournalists in the early stages of their careers. It provides a six-week paid internship at The Canadian Press (CP) head office in Toronto, offering direct exposure to national-level photojournalism.
The internship is intended for photographers who are building professional experience and seeking to break into the competitive field of photojournalism through real-world newsroom practice.
Purpose and Objectives
The award aims to:
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Support emerging Canadian photojournalists
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Provide national newsroom exposure at The Canadian Press
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Develop practical skills in daily photojournalism operations
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Honour the legacy of renowned Canadian photojournalist Tom Hanson
Through immersive editorial work, the program helps interns gain credibility, confidence, and professional visibility.
Key Internship Details
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Internship duration: 6 weeks
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Location: The Canadian Press head office, Toronto
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Internship period: Between April and September 2026 (dates agreed with CP)
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Weekly salary: Approximately CAD $875
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Employment type: Paid internship
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Organising bodies: Canadian Journalism Foundation and The Canadian Press
Travel, accommodation, and living expenses are not covered and must be paid by the intern.
Who Is Eligible?
Eligible Applicants
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
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Be a Canadian photojournalist
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Have less than five years of professional experience
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Be at an early career stage, including:
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Students
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Freelancers
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Photographers at regional or local publications
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Experience Requirements
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Still photography is the primary focus
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Applicants should be capable of working in a fast-paced newsroom
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Some video assignments may be included during the internship
Applicants must have their own basic camera gear. Long lenses and video equipment will be provided by The Canadian Press when required.
What the Internship Offers
Professional Experience
During the six-week placement, the intern will:
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Work alongside professional editors and photographers
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Contribute to national photojournalism coverage
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Gain hands-on newsroom experience
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Receive editorial guidance and professional feedback
Financial Support
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Weekly pay equivalent to CP’s starting photographer rate
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Total earnings depend on the exact internship duration
No additional allowances are provided.
Copyright and Usage Rights
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All images produced during the internship remain the copyright of The Canadian Press
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Interns may use images for:
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Personal portfolios
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Self-promotion and career development
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The Canadian Journalism Foundation may also use submitted or produced images for promotional purposes related to the award, including social media.
Post-Internship Requirements
After completing the internship, the selected participant must:
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Write a reflective summary of their internship experience
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Prepare a photo or multimedia gallery showcasing their best work
These materials will be used by both The Canadian Press and the Canadian Journalism Foundation for promotional and educational purposes.
How to Apply
Applicants must submit a complete application package by the deadline.
Required Application Materials
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A written proposal (maximum 1,000 words) explaining:
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How the internship will support career growth
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What the applicant hopes to gain professionally
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A portfolio of 12 to 25 captioned photographs
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A current resume
Optional Materials
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Letter of recommendation
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Multimedia submissions, including video work
Submission Deadline
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January 31, 2026, at 11:59 pm ET
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Selection Process
Applications are reviewed by a selection committee that includes:
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Canadian Journalism Foundation board members
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Photographers and photo editors from:
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The Canadian Press
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Daily newspapers
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Members of Tom Hanson’s family
The committee focuses on identifying applicants with strong potential, storytelling ability, and commitment to photojournalism.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Submitting fewer than 12 or more than 25 photographs
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Exceeding the 1,000-word proposal limit
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Missing captions or context for images
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Assuming travel or housing costs are covered
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Submitting after the deadline
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who can apply for the Tom Hanson Photojournalism Award?
Any Canadian photojournalist with less than five years of professional experience may apply.
Is the internship paid?
Yes. Interns receive approximately CAD $875 per week.
Are travel or living expenses covered?
No. All travel and accommodation costs must be covered by the intern.
Where does the internship take place?
The internship is based at The Canadian Press head office in Toronto.
Can students apply?
Yes. Students, freelancers, and early-career professionals are all eligible.
Is video experience required?
No. Still photography is the primary focus, though some video assignments may be included.
Who owns the photos produced during the internship?
All images produced belong to The Canadian Press, but interns may use them for portfolio purposes.
Conclusion
The Tom Hanson Photojournalism Award 2026 is a valuable career-building opportunity for emerging Canadian photojournalists. By offering paid national newsroom experience, professional mentorship, and high-level exposure, the award helps early-career photographers strengthen their skills and establish themselves in the field of photojournalism.
For more information, visit CJF.