International Photography Festival Seeks Emerging and Established Photographers for November 2026 Showcase in Alabama
SELMA, AL — The Photographic Nights of Selma, a premier international photography festival held in Selma, Alabama, has announced the opening of its call for entries for the 2026 edition. The festival is inviting photographers worldwide to submit their work for consideration ahead of the November 6-7 event.
The deadline for submissions is October 15, 2026, with selected photographers to be announced by October 25. The festival's artistic committee will evaluate entries based on artistic and technical quality, seeking diverse perspectives and innovative photographic work.
"We're looking for photographers who have something unique to say," explained the festival's artistic coordination team. "Whether it's reflections on society, landscapes, portraiture, or work that challenges the current zeitgeist — we want to showcase the breadth of contemporary photography."
A Platform for International Photographers
Now in its seventh year, the Photographic Nights of Selma has established itself as a significant venue for visual storytelling. Each evening, approximately thirty selected artist projects are screened on a giant outdoor display, offering photographers the opportunity to reach a growing and engaged audience. The festival's three-day format includes exhibitions at various venues throughout the Selma area, portfolio readings, artist talks, and public screenings.
The event was founded by French photographer Stéphane Kossmann, who also created the Nuits Photographiques de Pierrevert festival in France. The festival operates in partnership with Foot Soldier Park and Art Revive.
Entry Requirements and Commitments
Photographers are invited to submit a series of 15 to 30 images addressing any subject matter. The festival emphasizes work with clearly asserted points of view, welcoming projects across all genres — from documentary and landscape photography to fashion, portraiture, and still life.
Selected works will be presented as photo-sound montages, with the festival providing access to video and sound editing services. Photographers are also welcome to submit pre-edited presentations or original audio accompaniments for their images. Final montages must not exceed four minutes in duration.
A notable requirement: any images created with AI assistance must be clearly identified in submissions.
"We want to maintain the integrity of the festival's selection process," the committee noted. "Transparency about the tools and methods used is essential to our mission."
Prestigious Prizes and International Recognition
Selected photographers will receive accommodations in local homes throughout the festival and meal arrangements will be provided by organizers. Travel expenses remain the responsibility of participating artists.
Selected photographers are required to attend their screening evening and the following day for public engagement. A international jury panel — composed of established figures from the photography and arts worlds — will award prizes to outstanding submissions.
The grand prize carries significant weight: winners receive a fully funded invitation to the Nuits Photographiques de Pierrevert festival in southern France, scheduled for the final week of July 2027.
Public access to festival exhibitions, screenings, and conferences is free of charge.
Diverse Range of Work Welcomed
The festival's open thematic approach reflects its commitment to showcasing contemporary perspectives. The artistic committee seeks submissions reflecting everything from social commentary and environmental observation to intimate explorations, fashion work, and creative projects that defy current trends.
"We're interested in optimistic initiatives, ironic interludes, tributes to lightness, and bold divergences from the conventional," the committee explained. "Photography is a powerful medium for expression, and we want Selma's festival to reflect that diversity."
How to Apply
Photographers interested in submitting their work can access the application portal at photographicnightsofselma.com/call-for-entries/. All submissions must include a portfolio statement and contact information. Photographers with specific questions are encouraged to reach out to the festival's artistic committee at artistic.committee@photographicnightsofselma.com.
By submitting an application, photographers agree to the festival's guidelines and grant Photographic Nights of Selma the right to use excerpts from their work for promotional purposes, with appropriate credit, across digital platforms, printed materials, and press coverage.
Festival Details
When: November 6-7, 2026
Where: Selma, Alabama
Submission Deadline: October 15, 2026
The Photographic Nights of Selma is supported by Foot Soldier Park, Art Revive, and the Nuits Photographiques de Pierrevert.
ABOUT THE FESTIVAL
The Photographic Nights of Selma is an annual international photography festival that brings together emerging and established photographers for a three-day event combining exhibition, public screening, and professional development opportunities. Now in its seventh edition, the festival has become a destination for photographers seeking recognition and international exposure. The festival is defined by its commitment to "Quality and Friendliness" — rigorous artistic standards paired with genuine hospitality for visiting photographers and the local community.