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The 10th edition of Exposures International Photography Festival is set to launch its most ambitious film program to date, marking a significant shift in the event’s creative identity. Organized by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau, the festival will run from January 29 to February 4 and will feature an expanded cinema program that places film at the heart of its cultural mission.
According to the official announcement, the seven-day event will showcase 66 diverse film screenings spanning documentary, narrative, and experimental genres. Additionally, the festival will introduce its first-ever outdoor cinema, creating an open platform for visual storytelling and live cinematic experiences.
Comprehensive Film Program at Exposures Festival
The cinema program at Exposures Festival includes specialized sessions exploring the role of visual storytelling in shaping public understanding and promoting values of empathy and collaboration. These discussions will examine how film contributes to cultural responsibility and influences global audiences.
Meanwhile, the festival has incorporated a series of expert-led panel discussions focusing on cinema’s broader impact on culture and society. The screenings will feature works from filmmakers and photographers participating in various festival activities, offering audiences diverse perspectives on contemporary visual narratives.
Record-Breaking Award Submissions
The International Photography and Film Awards 2026 has received unprecedented participation, reflecting the festival’s growing international reach. The competition attracted 29,000 photography submissions and 634 film entries from more than 60 countries, according to festival organizers, marking the highest participation rate in the event’s history.
However, this year’s awards program extends beyond photography to celebrate filmmaking excellence across multiple categories. The Global Film Awards will honor filmmakers, educators, and professionals who contribute to advancing visual storytelling through four distinct categories: Best Cinematography, Best Documentary Film, Best Short Film, and Best Visual Effects.
Professional Development Through Cinema Workshops
In contrast to previous editions, Exposures 2026 emphasizes professional skill development through specialized cinema workshops led by international filmmakers and industry experts. These practical sessions treat filmmaking as both a creative and professional practice, covering essential aspects of the craft.
The workshops will focus on narrative techniques, performance direction, production methods, and modern technology applications in filmmaking. This educational component reinforces the festival’s role as a global platform for nurturing talent and advancing industry standards in visual arts.
Cultural Significance and Creative Evolution
The expanded film program represents a qualitative leap for Exposures, integrating cinema as an essential component of the festival’s creative ecosystem. The media bureau emphasized that this evolution strengthens the connection between photography and moving images as complementary forms of visual expression.
Furthermore, the introduction of outdoor cinema screenings creates new opportunities for public engagement with visual storytelling. This accessible format allows broader audiences to experience international cinema in an informal setting, democratizing access to diverse film content.
The festival continues to position Sharjah as a regional hub for visual arts and creative industries. By combining competitive awards, curated screenings, professional workshops, and public discussions, Exposures creates a comprehensive platform for cultural exchange and artistic development in the photography and film sectors.
The festival is expected to announce award winners across all categories during the closing days of the event in early February. Further details regarding specific film titles, guest speakers, and workshop schedules will likely be released as the opening date approaches.
