Deadline: 23-Feb-2026
Kranj Foto Fest 2026 is an international open call for contemporary photography projects, offering fully funded exhibitions in Slovenia during August 2026. One winner receives a solo exhibition, €1,000 cash prize, travel support, and accommodation, while up to 12 additional projects are selected for group or solo shows across unique historic and outdoor venues.
The Kranj Foto Fest Open Call 2026 invites photographers worldwide to submit contemporary photography projects for exhibition during the festival’s 6th edition in August 2026. Based in Kranj, Slovenia, the festival is known for transforming an entire historic town into a large-scale open-air photography exhibition.
All selected projects benefit from full production support, professional curation, and international visibility, making this one of Europe’s most accessible and artist-focused photography festivals.
About Kranj Foto Fest
Kranj Foto Fest is an international contemporary photography festival held annually in the medieval town of Kranj, Slovenia.
For one month during the peak of the European summer, Kranj becomes a city-wide exhibition space, presenting photography in both indoor and outdoor environments. The festival brings together emerging and established photographers, curators, and audiences from around the world.
What the Open Call Offers
The Open Call selects one main winner and up to twelve additional photography projects for exhibition at Kranj Foto Fest 2026.
Main Award Winner
One selected photographer will receive:
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A solo exhibition at Kranj Foto Fest 2026
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€1,000 cash prize
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Travel support up to €400
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Three nights of accommodation during the opening week
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On-site presence from 27–30 August 2026
Additional Selected Projects
Up to 12 projects will be selected for:
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Participation in group exhibitions
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Potential upgrade to solo exhibitions in prominent venues
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Full production and installation support
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Curatorial collaboration with the festival team
Exhibition Venues and Format
Kranj Foto Fest is known for its site-specific exhibitions that integrate photography into the town’s natural and architectural landscape.
Exhibition locations may include:
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Galleries and museums
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Art centres and historic landmarks
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Forests, riverbanks, and castle gardens
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Underground medieval tunnels beneath Kranj
This diverse exhibition format encourages dialogue between photography, public space, history, and nature, creating immersive visual experiences for audiences.
Who Is Eligible?
The Open Call is open to photographers worldwide with no thematic or demographic restrictions.
Eligibility criteria include:
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Open to all nationalities and regions
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No restrictions on age or career stage
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Open to any photographic theme or subject
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Emerging and established photographers are equally welcome
What Can Be Submitted?
Each applicant may submit up to two photography projects.
Project requirements:
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Each project must include 10–20 images
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Projects can be previously produced or new
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No restrictions on genre, concept, or style
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Strong conceptual coherence is encouraged
How the Selection Process Works
All submissions are reviewed by a professional jury appointed by Kranj Foto Fest.
Selection criteria typically include:
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Conceptual clarity and originality
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Artistic and technical quality
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Relevance to contemporary photography discourse
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Suitability for site-specific exhibition
Selected artists will be notified and invited to collaborate closely with the festival’s curatorial team.
How to Apply
To apply for Kranj Foto Fest 2026, photographers should follow these steps:
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Prepare one or two photography projects (10–20 images each)
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Ensure images clearly represent the project concept
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Complete the official Open Call submission form
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Submit all required materials before the stated deadline
Applicants should monitor the official Kranj Foto Fest website for submission deadlines and detailed application guidelines.
Artist Support and Benefits
Selected photographers receive extensive professional support, including:
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Full coverage of production and exhibition costs
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Curatorial guidance throughout the exhibition process
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Accommodation during the opening week
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Promotion through the festival’s PR and marketing channels
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Opportunities for future exhibitions in Slovenia and abroad
This long-term circulation of selected works enhances artists’ international visibility beyond the festival dates.
Why This Opportunity Matters
Kranj Foto Fest stands out for its artist-centered approach and commitment to accessibility.
Key benefits include:
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No production costs for selected artists
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International exposure in a high-profile European festival
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Exhibition experience in unique public and historic spaces
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Professional networking with curators and peers
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Long-term career visibility and touring potential
For photographers seeking meaningful exhibition opportunities without financial barriers, this open call offers significant value.
Common Tips for Applicants
To strengthen your application:
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Submit projects with a clear and cohesive narrative
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Ensure high-quality image sequencing
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Consider how the work could function in public or outdoor spaces
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Avoid overloading projects with unrelated images
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Provide concise, well-written project descriptions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When will Kranj Foto Fest 2026 take place?
The festival will take place in August 2026, with the opening week scheduled from 27–30 August 2026.
Is there an application fee?
The provided information does not mention an application fee. Applicants should check the official Open Call details for confirmation.
Can I submit more than one project?
Yes. Each applicant may submit up to two projects, each with 10–20 images.
Are production costs really fully covered?
Yes. All selected exhibitions have their production and installation costs covered by the festival.
Do I need to attend the festival in person?
The main award winner receives travel and accommodation support to attend the opening week. Attendance for other selected artists may vary.
Are only new projects accepted?
No. Both existing and new projects are eligible, as long as they meet submission requirements.
Can selected projects be exhibited elsewhere after the festival?
Yes. Selected works may gain additional exposure through circulation to other venues in Slovenia and internationally.
Conclusion
The Kranj Foto Fest 2026 Open Call offers photographers a rare opportunity to exhibit their work in a fully supported, international festival setting without financial barriers. With open eligibility, diverse exhibition spaces, professional curation, and long-term exposure, the festival provides both immediate recognition and lasting impact for contemporary photographic practice.
For more information, visit Kranj Foto Fest.
