Post by : Badri Ariffin

The 10th installment of the Xposure International Photography Festival 2026 will introduce a unique Documentary Zone dedicated to extensive visual narratives rooted in research and storytelling. This segment will showcase 13 exhibitions by photographers who delve into various themes including climate change, conflict, displacement, identity, and cultural traditions.

Attendees will engage with photography as a cohesive visual tale, highlighting ethical considerations and truthful depiction. The festival also includes discussions and workshops where photographers will elaborate on project development, sensitive fieldwork, and ethical storytelling techniques.

Environmental Change and Climate Challenges

Notable photographers within the Documentary Zone include Michael Yamashita (National Geographic), Tomasz Tomaszewski, Philippe Chancel, and Anush Babajanyan. Their projects focus on environmental transformations impacting communities, addressing issues like coastal erosion and diminishing lakes, to illustrate the profound connection between people and their surroundings.

Conflict and Social Transformation

Some exhibitions tackle themes of war, displacement, and political upheaval, portraying the resilience of communities as they rebuild their lives post-conflict. This long-term photographic approach serves to illuminate the human experience beyond the sensational headlines.

Memory, Identity, and Cultural Traditions

Projects under this theme investigate the intricate relationship between individuals and their cultural or urban landscapes, capturing everything from rituals and faith practices to forgotten structures. Through photography, memories and identities are preserved through time.

Science and Visual Research

Certain exhibitions translate scientific inquiries into visual narratives, spanning polar territories and marine environments, while fostering a connection between data and community awareness with precision.

Highlighted Talks

• Jan 29, 14:15 – Matilde Gattoni: Ocean Rage: West Africa Is Being Swallowed by The Sea

• Jan 29, 15:35 – Shoayb Khattab: Focus. Frame. Fulfil

• Jan 31, 15:55 – Tomasz Tomaszewski: How to Build Trust in Difficult Places

• Jan 31, 17:25 – Anush Babajanyan: After the Aral Sea

• Feb 2, 22:00 – Lukasz Larsson Warzecha: Stories Trapped in Ice

• Feb 3, 17:00 – Tim Smith: The Art of Screwing Up and Embracing Your Weaknesses

The Documentary Zone emphasizes Xposure 2026’s commitment to responsible, research-based photography, showcasing long-form visual storytelling as a vital medium to comprehend global changes.

Festival Overview

Organized by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau, Xposure 2026 takes place from January 29 to February 4 at Aljada, Sharjah, under the theme “A Decade of Visual Storytelling”. The event will feature over 126 sessions, 72 workshops, 280 portfolio reviews, and 95 exhibitions with 3,200 artworks. The Xposure Photography and Film Awards 2026 attracted 29,000 entries in photography and 634 film submissions from 60 countries, reflecting the festival's international influence and dedication to socially and environmentally conscious visual narratives.

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