The Ministry of Culture in France is launching a major cultural event from September 1, 2026 to September 30, 2027, celebrating the 200-year anniversary of photography. The bicentennial marks the achievements of Nicéphore Niépce, who is credited with creating the first permanent photograph between 1826 and 1827. Hundreds of exhibitions, talks, festivals, and workshops will take place across France, with a focus on Paris and the Île-de-France region. Notable exhibitions include "Louvre Photo" at the Louvre Museum (November 4, 2026 to May 3, 2027), "Nadar: Inventing Paris, From the Depths to the Sky" at the Catacombs of Paris (September 29, 2026 to January 31, 2027), and "Photography in full letters" at the European House of Photography (June 10 to September 13, 2026). The article serves as a regularly updated guide to these events.
This celebration matters because it honors a pivotal moment in visual culture—the invention of photography—and underscores France's role in its history. By dedicating an entire year to photography across museums, galleries, and public spaces, the Ministry of Culture elevates the medium's artistic and historical significance, making it accessible to a broad audience. The event also highlights how photography continues to evolve, from historical retrospectives to contemporary and immersive works, reinforcing its enduring impact on art and society.