Zafer Yorganci (1993, Istanbul, Türkiye) is a Turkish Documentary Photographer, Filmmaker, and 3D Artist and Creative Designer. He has been actively engaged in his creative pursuits since 2012. Growing up in Istanbul, Turkey, he initially pursued studies in Graphic Design, subsequently working as a Designer for various companies. Alongside his professional journey, his passion for Film and Photography led him to attend film and scriptwriting courses in Istanbul.
In 2016, Yorganci achieved recognition as one of twelve photographers selected from Turkey for the #BridgingStories photography collective, mentored by the esteemed Photographer John Stanmeyer (National Geographic). Their collaborative works were exhibited in Turkey, France, and Armenia, and featured in The New York Times. The collective also released a globally distributed Photo Book in 2017. Notably, Yorganci's contributions were archived by The International Centre for Photojournalism (CIP) with same collective in Perpignan, France, in 2018.
Parallel to his photography, Yorganci explored the realm of filmmaking, contributing as an Editor and Cinematographer (Camera Reel) for various short films. In 2015, he directed his first short documentary, "The Dispossessed," which earned a special jury award in Turkey and garnered recognition at international festivals.
His academic journey led him to pursue a degree in "Creative Media - 3D Animation and Visual Effects for Films" culminating in his graduation with the short film "Frames" in 2021, supported by European Union Funds. Throughout his photo and film studies, Yorganci consistently focused on capturing the essence of human life, addressing issues such as refugees, the working class, poverty, and human rights.
Zafer Yorganci's diverse skill set and commitment to storytelling reflect a profound dedication to using his creative talents to bring attention to important societal issues.
2023, World of Film International Festival, in Glasgow, UK.
2021, Taste of Anatolia - Films from Turkey in Cambridge, UK.
2021,Award, ''The Runner Up Short Film on Refugee'', IIUSFF Film Festival - Association with ''UNHCR'' in Bangladesh.
2021, Financial Support by European Union Funds in Poland for the short film ''Frames''.
2018, His Photo work was placed in The International Centre for Photojournalism (CIP) in France.
2018, Visa pour l’Image-Perpignan Festival in France.
2017,The New York Times - ''Building Bridges Between Turkey and Armenia'' in the U.S.A.
2017, Bridging Stories - Photo Book published all around the world.
2016, Selected Photographer for BridgingStories (He was one of 12 Photographer who was selected from Turkey)
2016, Bin Varmis Bir Yokmus - Group Photo Exhibition Turkey.
2016, Goldensun Short Film Festival - screening in Malta.
2016, 10th International Second Hand Film Festival - screening in Turkey.
2016, Doc Sun back Film Festival - screening in the U.S.A.
2016, Award "Jury Prize", Genconculer Short Film Competition - Jury Prize in Turkey.
2015, IX. Istanbul International Architecture and Urban Films Festival in Turkey.