The theme for PHOTO 2026 will explore one of humanity’s most profound forces: love. Photographers at all stages of their careers are invited to submit work that interprets the multifaceted nature of love, and its absence, as a lens through which to look at the world. The theme is a basis from which to explore a broad range of experiences and social issues; both light and dark, and woven through with pain and bliss, obsession and desire, passion and compassion.

 

“Love is a powerful human emotion that shapes our lives,” says Elias Redstone, Founder/Artistic Director of PHOTO Australia. “In its many forms, love can be a force for connection, compassion, and social change. Conversely, the absence of love can highlight the gaps, inequalities, and divisions that exist within our communities.”

 

An international jury of eight photography experts – including curators from MoMA (New York), The Photographers’ Gallery (London), and Maison Européenne de la Photographie (Paris) – will evaluate submissions. Selected works will be exhibited by PHOTO Australia as large-scale outdoor artworks. PHOTO 2026 will also feature exhibitions curated by museums and galleries including NGV and Museum of Australian Photography.

 

The Festival has proven to be a career catalyst for photographers that have been selected through the Open Call. Australian photographer Jo Duck notes: “Being selected through the Open Call for PHOTO 2024 was a big step up for my practice, getting my work in front of new audiences as well as incredible local and international curators.”

 

“Seeing my work displayed outdoors as an installation, integrated into the surrounding environment, was truly mesmerizing and inspiring,” says Brazilian photographer Asafe Ghalib. “It provided a new perspective and a fresh interpretation of my artwork.”

 

South African photographer Karabo Mooki adds: “Every component of the Festival is carefully curated to support artists participating and I found this was by far the greatest experience I’ve had with any photo festival globally.”

 

Successful applicants will receive:

• Inclusion in PHOTO 2026 International Festival of Photography, one of the Asia-Pacific region’s leading photography festivals
• Exhibition fees
• Large-scale outdoor presentation of their work
• Exposure to international curatorial experts

 

Photographers at all career stages are eligible to apply. Applications close 27 February 2025.

 

Apply Now →