Organizer Information

Kranj Foto Fest is an international contemporary photography festival based in Kranj, Slovenia. Founded with the mission of promoting socially engaged and visually compelling photographic practices, the festival has become one of the most respected photography events in Central Europe. Each year, Kranj Foto Fest transforms the historic city center into an open exhibition space, activating public squares, medieval buildings, galleries, and alternative venues. The festival emphasizes critical storytelling, documentary practices, and innovative visual narratives, while fostering dialogue between photographers, curators, editors, and audiences. Through exhibitions, talks, portfolio reviews, and public programs, Kranj Foto Fest supports both emerging and established photographers on an international level.

Title & Description

Kranj Foto Fest 2026 – International Open Call for Photography Exhibitions Kranj Foto Fest invites photographers and visual storytellers from around the world to apply for its 2026 edition, taking place in August 2026 in Kranj, Slovenia. This open call seeks strong, cohesive photographic projects that demonstrate conceptual clarity, visual strength, and relevance to contemporary social, cultural, or personal narratives. The open call has no prescribed theme, allowing applicants full creative freedom in subject matter and approach. Selected projects will be presented as solo or group exhibitions across various indoor and outdoor venues in the historic city of Kranj. The festival aims to provide meaningful exposure, professional production standards, and direct engagement with an international audience and professional network.

Categories

Eligibility

  • Open to international applicants
  • Open to emerging and established photographers
  • Individuals, duos, and collectives may apply
  • Applicants must be 18 years or older
  • No restrictions based on nationality, gender, or background

Program Benefits & Awards

  • One selected winner receives:
    • A solo exhibition at Kranj Foto Fest 2026
    • Full production costs covered by the festival
    • €1,000 cash prize
    • Travel support up to €400
    • Accommodation for 3 nights during the festival opening
  • Up to 12 additional projects selected for group exhibitions
  • Possibility of upgraded solo exhibitions in special festival locations
  • Professional curatorial support
  • PR, marketing, and international visibility
  • Participation in a major European photography festival

Application Fee

  • €12 for one project
  • €16 for two projects

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit:
  • Project description
  • 10–20 high-resolution images forming a cohesive series
  • Artist biography
  • CV
  • Contact information

How to Apply?

Online Application

Key Dates

  • Application Deadline: 23 February 2026
  • Notification of Results: Spring 2026
  • Festival Dates: 27–30 August 2026

Location

Kranj, Slovenia

Additional Details

Each applicant may submit up to two projects. All exhibitions are curated and installed in collaboration with the festival team. Selected artists are expected to provide final production files according to technical guidelines provided by the organizers.

Website Link: https://kranjfotofest.org/en/open-call-2026/