Organizer Information
Encontros da Imagem is a non-profit cultural association with over thirty years of history. It annually hosts one of Europe's oldest and most prestigious international photography and visual arts festivals in Braga, Portugal. The festival is a vital reference for both emerging and established artists, promoting visual literacy and the democratization of photography.
Title & Description
Open Call: Photobook Award EI 2026.
As part of its 36th edition, the festival invites national and international photographers, artists, and publishers to submit their work. The award celebrates the photobook as a critical medium for contemporary photography. The 2026 festival theme is "Territory and Identity," focusing on diverse approaches ranging from traditional documentary projects to experimental photographic constructions.
Categories:
- Best Published Award: For authors of already published photography books.
- Best Dummy Award: For handmade, DIY, or self-published book models and prototypes.
Eligibility
- Location: Open to artists worldwide.
- Age: Must be 18 years or older.
- Submissions: Individual or collective applications are accepted.
- Quantity: Each candidate may submit a maximum of 3 photobooks (each as a separate application).
Program Benefits and Awards
- Cash Prizes: €1,000 for the winner of the Best Published Award and €1,000 for the Best Dummy Award.
- Exhibition: All submitted books will be displayed in a group exhibition in Braga from September 18 to November 1, 2026.
- Visibility: Featured recognition on the festival website and social media channels.
- Honorable Mentions: Up to 2 mentions per category may be awarded by the jury.
Fees
- Entry Fee: €25 per book (application fee).
Application Requirements
- Digital Registration: Must submit via the Picter platform.
- Physical Submission: Books must be physically sent to Braga by July 15, 2026.
- Shipping Note: Packages must be labeled "BOOK WITH NO COMMERCIAL VALUE." Applicants are responsible for all customs clearance costs (especially for shipments outside the EU).
- Address: Largo da Estação, 40 - Salas 5 e 6, 4700-223 Braga, Portugal.
How to Apply?
Register and upload your synopsis and digital project files on Picter. Apply to Photobook Award EI 2026.
Key Dates
- Applications Open: April 20, 2026.
- Submission Deadline: May 25, 2026.
- Physical Book Deadline: July 15, 2026.
- Festival Dates: September 18 – November 1, 2026.
Location
Portugal, Braga (North of Portugal).
Additional Details
The 2026 jury includes Franek Ammer (Artist/Curator), José Farinha, and Sara Giuliattini (Co-director of Polycopies Paris). If your book includes multimedia elements, you are encouraged to include links to videos (YouTube/Vimeo) within your synopsis to provide the jury with a full context of the work.