At the heart of the picturesque Dark Peak region, the Dark Peak Photo Festival emerges as a must-attend event for photographers passionate about capturing moments and visual storytelling. Founded in 2023 by the non-profit organization Dark Peak Photo, this festival is dedicated to promoting contemporary photography in an innovative and accessible manner. With a clear mission to inspire audiences to rediscover the world through the camera lens, the festival offers a unique platform where communities can come together, explore underrepresented themes, and engage in enriching dialogues.

Primarily aimed at local photographers but open to an international audience, the Dark Peak Photo Festival is committed to enhancing the professional development of its participants. By cultivating learning opportunities and strengthening their artistic practice, the festival acts as a catalyst for photographers eager to engage in current conversations within the global photography community. Co-created with local stakeholders and focused on international issues, this event promises not only a showcase of talent but also an opportunity for support and active participation in the field of contemporary photography.

In 1970, under the impetus of the Arlesian photographer Lucien Clergue, the writer Michel Tournier, and the historian Jean-Maurice Rouquette, Les Rencontres d’Arles was born, now an annual festival of international renown. At its inception, photography struggled to be recognized as a major art form. However, this festival played a crucial role in its acceptance by cultural institutions. Starting with a series of meetings among photography enthusiasts, the event grew in importance and popularity over the years, experiencing a meteoric rise in the 2000s due to growing public interest in this medium.

For over fifty years, the biggest names in photography have participated in Les Rencontres d’Arles, a true breeding ground for new talent. The festival anticipates changes in the medium and technological advancements, striving to offer a visually compelling experience for all. Its program, rich and varied, is the result of diverse perspectives, bringing together photographers and exhibition curators from different backgrounds. Sometimes, an entire section of the program is dedicated to an artist, as was the case for Martin Parr, Raymond Depardon, Nan Goldin, or even the Arlesian fashion designer Christian Lacroix. At other times, the festival explores the connections between photography and cinema, music, or architecture, seeking year after year to interpret a changing world through the lenses of photographers, undoubtedly the best visual storytellers.

The Digital Event is renowned as the premier one-day photography event in Switzerland, attracting photographers, videographers, and creatives from the region and beyond. With over 20 brands and exhibitors showcasing their latest photo and video products, including cameras, lenses, and accessories, this event offers an invaluable opportunity to experience the industry’s latest innovations firsthand. Additionally, seven training providers will present their newest courses and photo tours, aimed at expanding knowledge and skills.

The event’s lineup of seminars, lectures, and keynote presentations is unmatched in Switzerland, offering 40 sessions, live shoots, and presentations by esteemed photographers and experts. This is a priceless opportunity for both professionals and amateurs to broaden their photographic horizons and acquire new skills. The event is further highlighted by five captivating keynote presentations on a grand stage featuring a stunning 12-meter screen and 4K projection. With a unique service of on-site sensor cleaning for Canon, Fujifilm, Nikon, and Sony cameras, and new interactive booths for hands-on photography, the Digital Event is the ultimate gathering for the photo community to share their passion, learn new techniques, and be inspired by the best in the industry.