World Photo Day 2026

World Photo Day is a global celebration of photography, honoring the art, craft, and history of capturing moments through the lens. This day encourages photographers, both amateur and professional, to share their perspective of the world through photographs. It’s a time to recognize the power of photography to tell stories, evoke emotions, and document the world around us.

What is World Photo Day?

World Photo Day is an annual event dedicated to celebrating the art of photography. It is a day for photographers from all walks of life to showcase their work and to appreciate the diverse ways in which photography can capture the essence of life. Whether through portraiture, landscapes, street photography, or artistic compositions, photography serves as a universal language that transcends borders and connects people across the globe.

When is World Photo Day?

World Photo Day is celebrated every year on August 19th. This date was chosen to commemorate the day in 1839 when the French government announced the invention of the daguerreotype, one of the earliest forms of photography, as a gift “free to the world.” It marks a significant moment in the history of photography, making it the perfect day to celebrate the medium.

How to Get Involved

There are many ways to participate in World Photo Day:

• Share Your Photos: Use social media to share your favorite photographs, whether they are recent shots or older works. Use relevant hashtags to connect with the global photography community and showcase your unique perspective.
• Explore Photography Exhibitions: Visit a photography exhibition, gallery, or museum to explore the work of other photographers. Many institutions offer special events or exhibitions in honor of World Photo Day.
• Take a Photo Walk: Grab your camera and go on a photo walk in your local area. Capture the everyday beauty of your surroundings and experiment with different techniques and perspectives.
• Learn Something New: Use this day as an opportunity to improve your photography skills. Try a new technique, experiment with lighting, or explore different subjects to expand your creative horizons.
• Support Photographers: Purchase prints or support a local photographer by attending their event, buying their work, or promoting their photography on social media.

History of the Event

World Photo Day was founded by Australian photographer Korske Ara in 2009. The date of August 19th was chosen to commemorate the invention of the daguerreotype, an early photographic process developed by Louis Daguerre in 1837 and announced to the world in 1839. Since its inception, World Photo Day has grown into a global event, with photographers from around the world sharing their work and celebrating the art of photography. The day highlights the impact of photography on culture, communication, and history.

Relevant Hashtags

• #WorldPhotoDay
• #Photography
• #PhotoOfTheDay
• #PhotographersOfInstagram
• #CaptureTheMoment