The WordPress Photo Festival 2024 has come to an end, and it has left us with some valuable insights and exciting possibilities for the future of WordPress events. In this final episode of the series, we will take a closer look at the project itself, highlight some key information about the event, and discuss the concept of next generation events.
The project itself is a treasure trove of creativity, with over 15,000 photos submitted by contributors from around the world. These photos capture moments using a range of devices, from cell phones to high-end cameras. The project is carefully moderated by a team of 30 individuals who ensure that only high-quality photos make it into the repository.
One notable aspect of the project is that all the photos are licensed under Creative Commons Zero, which means they are free for anyone to use without restrictions. This provides an incredible amount of freedom for individuals looking for images to use on their websites or other projects.
The event itself was a resounding success, with participants from various communities around the world. It began as a local initiative in Kerala, India, with several photo walks that garnered significant interest. The organizers then decided to turn it into a global event, receiving support from the WordPress foundation to make it a next-gen event.
During the event, a website was set up to showcase the submitted photos in real-time. This allowed observers to witness the page evolve as new photos were added. The event also included a contest, with the top five photographs receiving a cash prize of $100 each. The winning photos showcased incredible moments and stunning details, highlighting the talent and creativity of the participants.
The introduction of prize money at a WordPress event was a unique and exciting development. However, it came with its challenges, as the existing WordCamp system was not designed to accommodate such awards. Adjustments had to be made to ensure that the prize money could be given out effectively. While it was a success in this instance, it is unlikely to become a widespread practice due to the increased costs associated with organizing events post-COVID.
This event and others like it are paving the way for next generation WordPress events. Traditional WordCamps face numerous challenges, such as rising costs and the strain on organizers’ time and resources. The focus is shifting towards events that prioritize education, career advancement, and community building.
Several upcoming events demonstrate the diversity of next-gen WordPress events. The Misaka WordPress and Education Technology Showcase in Uganda aims to empower local educators by exploring the potential of WordPress in their field. Similarly, the Kampala Online Payments and Delivery Summit addresses the unique challenges faced by African communities in online transactions.
Community days, workshops, and panel discussions are also emerging as effective event formats. These events provide targeted education and networking opportunities, focusing on specific areas of interest within the WordPress community.
The WordPress community team welcomes new ideas for future events. Whether it’s organizing an event yourself or suggesting an event you would like to attend, your input is valuable. The official WordPress events website offers resources and information for those interested in getting involved.
As we conclude this series on the WordPress Photo Festival 2024, it is clear that the event has been a tremendous success, showcasing the power of collaboration, creativity, and community within the WordPress ecosystem. The future holds exciting possibilities for next-gen WordPress events that prioritize education, career advancement, and community building.
