Following the success of our third Open Call Love, we continue a similar rhetoric with a new theme: joy, kindness, moments of connection, and the profound beauty that makes life worth living. Seen in a time of increasing division and conflict, we want to create a space for photography that embodies openness, freedom, and the small yet powerful acts that shape a better world. We want to see captured moments that matter, whether fleeting or monumental.  Acts of war, acts of love as contrasting realities that shape each individual human experience. 

This was an invitation for photographers to explore the world not just as it is, but as it could be. The exhibition will see an open visual manifesto of love, joy and the radical power of kindness. Expressing how love persists in the face of struggle, joy as an act of defiance as moments of celebration, resilience, and human connection. Seeing kindness as a force of change as gestures of generosity, solidarity, and care.

Our invited guest judges Laura Conway and Victoria Sullivan have reviewed all submissions, selecting the final 35 photographers. Awarding our four runners up and best in show photographer.

As part of The Photobook Cafe’s Public Programme we aim to bring a diverse selection of photographers together, collectively representing all forms of Joy. With all submissions being celebrated and screened on the evening of theJune 26th, and the potential to be featured on The Photobook Cafe and Rapid Eye Darkrooms Instagram, exposing all submissions to press and industry professionals. Alongside the final selected photographers having their photograph presented in a group exhibition and publication, with an opening night and publication launch held at The Photobook Cafe.

Best in show and our runners up will be announced June 26th 18:30 in our Gallery.

As part of The Photobook Cafe Public Programme

Supported by Rapid Eye Darkrooms

Many thanks to our guest judges: Victoria Sullivan and Laura Conway

Poster image Courtesy of: Heather Lawrence and Emma Martin