Photosynthèse - European Nature Photography Festival

Photosynthèse: the European nature photography festival in Saint-Pourçain-sur-Sioule

Since 1989, the Photosynthèse festival has established itself as one of the major events for nature photography in Europe. Located in Saint-Pourçain-sur-Sioule, in the Allier department, this biennial festival aims to promote nature and the environment to the widest audience through photography.

A European-scale photography competition

The heart of the festival lies in a photography competition open to all, amateurs and professionals alike, with eight categories on paper prints: landscape, vertebrate fauna, invertebrate fauna, wildflowers, greenhouse or garden flowers, black and white photography, photographic creation, and a special theme renewed for each edition ('Geometry in Nature', 'Encounters'... ). The selected works are presented to the public during exhibitions and commented slideshows throughout the festival.

A rich and varied program

Beyond the competition, Photosynthèse offers a complete program of activities related to photography and nature. Nature photography workshops and courses are led by renowned photographers, allowing participants to improve their field techniques. Guided nature outings invite participants to discover the flora and fauna of the Val de Sioule and Bourbonnais. Meet-and-greet meals encourage friendly exchanges between enthusiasts, photographers, and naturalists.

Discovering the region

The festival is also an opportunity to discover the rich architectural, natural, and gastronomic heritage of Saint-Pourçain-sur-Sioule and its surroundings. The town, famous for its vineyards and medieval heritage, offers an exceptional setting for festival-goers. Conferences on biodiversity and the environment complete the program, while a closing concert crowns each edition in a festive and warm atmosphere.

A story of passion since 1989

Created in 1989, the Photosynthèse festival is driven by the Photosynthèse association, under the direction of Roger Volat. In over twenty-five years of existence, the festival has built a loyal following of enthusiasts from all over France and Europe, making Saint-Pourçain-sur-Sioule the capital of nature photography for one week every two years. The festival has seen fourteen memorable editions, each enriched by a unique special theme and significant encounters with renowned nature photographers.