The Institute of Photography: Research & Knowledge Exchange

Terra

The Institute of Photography (IOP) is a centre of excellence for creative, experimental photography and lens-based environmental storytelling.

Research focus

The Institute of Photography prioritises research on global, social and environmental challenges. By incorporating ecological citizenship principles, researchers aim to address the climate crisis through their Living Earth Research Cluster.

This interdisciplinary approach involves collaboration with scientists, geographers and social humanities to envision sustainable pathways. The Terra visual research cluster specifically focuses on land-related methodologies and their intersections with climate justice, community dynamics and local-global contexts, particularly in Cornwall. The Creative Cornwall cluster supports regional studies and creative industry growth, promoting knowledge exchange and contributing to Cornwall's creative landscape.

The Institute of Photography also fosters research into experimental and material practices, enhancing creative pedagogies and nurturing reflective making cultures. Additionally, the Institute explores the nexus between Creativity and Technology, integrating emerging technologies into immersive narratives and fostering collaboration.

Researchers investigate the integration of emerging technologies into creative practice, informing curriculum development and advancing research-informed approaches. Collaboration, innovation, and impact remain central to the Institute's mission as it strives to shape societal narratives and address global challenges through photography. 

Discover our doctoral project briefs

Falmouth University student immersed up to knees in river, bending down to view though camera on tripod.
BA(Hons) Marine & Natural History Photography 11
Photo by Adrian Brown

ENVIRO/PHOTO

Based within Falmouth’s Institute of Photography, but working with partners locally and globally, ...

ENVIRO/PHOTO

Meet our PhD Researchers

Alan Conteh

Alan Conteh

Thesis title: Photographing the Invisible: Exploring the Relationship Between Photographic Narrative...

Alan Conteh
Josie Purcell
Josie Purcell

Josie Purcell

Thesis title: Cornwall’s ‘Rivercide’ Cyanotypes: can abstract photographic art act as a mediat...

Josie Purcell

Research & Knowledge Exchange

Working at the forefront of the areas in which we teach, our researchers are committed to collaborating across disciplinary boundaries, and in partnership with industry, government, and the communities we serve, to address the key challenges of our age.

Find out more
RKE