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INTERNATIONAL PHOTO

OLTEN FESTIVAL             

10TH ANNIVERSARY 

August 25–29, 2027 

The International Photo Festival Olten is the driving force and the heart of IPFO, as well as an expression of its motto, “Love and Passion.” Since 2017, the festival has been bringing the elite of the international and Swiss photography scene to Olten, the “City of Three Fir Trees,” for five days every two years in August.

Whether through the exciting and thought-provoking evening lectures titled “THE STORY BEHIND: An Evening with …,” inspiring workshops and seminars, or impressive exhibitions—the festival is a gathering place for industry professionals, photography enthusiasts, and curious visitors. It’s a place for exchange, new perspectives, and a glimpse behind the lens.

We're celebrating photography!

  • THE STORY BEHIND: An Evening with...

    There’s a story behind every photo. Whether it’s a moving, life-changing world event, personal crises, polarizing or inspiring figures, or even humorous anecdotes—photographers, the invisible witnesses of our times, offer moving insights into the context of their work.

  • EXHIBITIONS

    Up to 13 exhibitions will be on display both indoors and outdoors. The goal: to make them fresh, informative, aesthetically pleasing, interesting, bridge-building, and immersive. These carefully curated exhibitions offer a diverse journey through various genres, themes, and backgrounds. Each stop becomes a new experience.

  • CAMPUS

    A gathering place for professionals in the photography industry, featuring a diverse program of discussions, information, and networking. Workshops provide insights into creative and technical aspects, while portfolio reviews offer a platform for everyone to present their work to decision-makers.

  • PHOTOVILLE4600

    The photo contest is held annually, with events taking place every two years during the festival. As part of the festival, a total of 54 photographers from Switzerland and abroad are featured in six categories, selected by a distinguished jury. Prizes include cash awards totaling CHF 15,000, as well as the prestigious IPFO PHOTO AWARD and IPFO SWISS PHOTO AWARD.

  • Mediation

    Experience photography interactively. Engage directly with photographers during artist talks, surrounded by their exhibitions, followed by book signings. Children, families, and school classes learn about photography in a playful and creative way. In the process, they expand and strengthen their understanding of visual language and media literacy in a rapidly changing visual landscape.

  • ZUMSTEIN VILLAGE

    Representatives from leading camera manufacturers will showcase the latest models and products. Through one-on-one conversations, customers can learn more about the latest technical capabilities and test out these features during photo walks and on-site events.

  • FESTIVAL SQUARE

    Food, drinks, parties, and chance encounters with photography icons.

Speakers & Exhibitions

Festival Highlights

2017–2023
(to be continued in 2025)