Photography Festivals in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur

Bouches-du-Rhône

Two festivals programmed between October and December form the focal point of the local and national photography community: “Phot’Aix” and “Photo Marseille”. The former is spearheaded by the association La Fontaine Obscure and revolves around two highlights – “Regards Croisés” and “Parcours”. As its name suggests, the “Regards Croisés” exhibition is committed to sharing works by amateur and professional photographers from both France and abroad. In parallel, “Parcours” aims to propel new talents from Provence and France into the limelight, with shows scheduled at a variety of venues throughout Aix-en-Provence. Dedicated to contemporary photography, the “Photo Marseille” festival takes a close interest in emerging young photographers too, rewarding top new talents with the “Prix Maison Blanche” prize. The event also hosts an exciting line-up of exhibitions and various learning activities (tours, workshops and talks) giving centre stage to renowned contemporary photographers. In June, a few days before the legendary “Recontres d’Arles”, the town of Fontvieille – located just next to the capital of Camargue – invites photo fans to its “Festival Photographique”, an event that aims to put Fontvieille and its history back in the spotlight through images, with shows at various venues throughout town.

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Between the Massif des Maures & Massif de l’Esterel

If you’re a fan of militant festivals, “Fotovar” is made for you! The festival is held in the town of Draguignan, generally in autumn or early winter, and features two photography contests showcasing work by amateurs and pros alike. Every year, 100% of the proceeds from the event are donated to the NGO HAMAP Humanitaire – the perfect excuse to go and admire some great pics! In Roquebrune-sur-Argens in July, works by amateur photographers selected via a competition rub shoulders with those of professional guest photographers at the town’s “Festival Photographique”. Encouraging both contemplation and participation, the event features a photo marathon together with photography walks in Roquebrune-sur-Argens. The festival fosters learning too, with a range of workshops and talks hosted by guest photographers.

Dévoluy

Held every year, the “Festival de l’Image” in Superdévoluy is a must-do event for mountain and nature photography aficionados. Lasting 4 days, the festival features a photography contest open to amateurs and professionals alike, as well as an exhibition village showing around a dozen artists, masterclasses led by professional photographers, guided nature walks, talks and screenings. A packed programme that promises to keep visitors busy, while paying homage to our bonds with the mountains and nature as a whole. Moreover, the festival shows a particular interest in independent photographers possessing in-depth knowledge of the mountains and their secrets, who have taken the time to develop an intimate relationship with this mysterious and fascinating environment.

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Pays d’Avignon and Luberon

Located in Pernes-les-Fontaines, the association La Photo Dans Le Cadre organizes two photography meetings every year, one in summer and one in autumn (“Eté de Pernes-les-Fontaines” and “Automne de Pernes-les-Fontaines”). Both events showcase around twenty amateur and professional photographers exhibited at the town’s most beautiful venues, inviting visitors to admire the images on show as well as their sumptuous setting. Taking place in July, “Les Nuits Photographiques de Pierrevert” features three open-air projection evenings: a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the warm summer air while admiring a multitude of magnificent photos on a giant screen, at the pretty outdoor theatre in the heart of town. During the day, the festival also hosts a range of exhibitions at Pierrevert’s heritage sites magicked into a genuine open-air gallery for the occasion, as well as talks and encounters between photographers and the public.

Near Nice

Held over a weekend in May, the “Festival Photo de Mouans-Sartoux” points the lens at this tranquil little town in the Alpes-Maritimes. The event features exhibitions, a photo marathon, talks, activities, encounters and even photographic equipment for sale. At the end of the weekend, various prizes are awarded to the participants to wind up the festival in style. Last but not least, “Image-Satellite” in Nice is a festival dedicated to contemporary photography and experimental techniques by emerging artists. It generally takes place in early autumn and revolves around several exhibitions and formats: screenings, activities, experimental work, artistic techniques, etc., dedicated to showcasing audacious yet sensitive artists who strive to put a new twist on traditional photographic codes.

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