Post by : Bianca Suleiman
Xposure International Photography Festival 2026 is set to conduct its Conservation Summit on February 2, bringing together top photographers, scientists, and ocean experts to confront pressing threats to marine ecosystems. Under the theme “Troubled Waters”, the summit aims to devise actionable strategies for safeguarding our oceans.
The oceans are vital for our planet, absorbing 91% of excess heat and 29% of global carbon emissions. However, issues like pollution, industrial activities, climate change, and overfishing are jeopardizing marine life. Experts warn that without prompt interventions, many marine species risk extinction.
A Hub for Global Environmental Advocacy
His Excellency Tariq Saeed Allay, Director-General of the Sharjah Government Media Bureau, emphasized that the Conservation Summit is a cornerstone of Xposure, reflecting the festival’s dedication to addressing global issues through solutions, policy influence, and collective responsibility. The summit employs visual storytelling to weave together science, artistry, and policy to spur genuine environmental action.
Highlighting Key Sessions
Kicking off with the keynote session titled “The Living Sea: A Fight for Our Oceans”, Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Government Relations Department in Sharjah, joins acclaimed photojournalist and National Geographic Explorer Brian Skerry. This session delves into the oceans as sensitive living systems, showcasing how documentary photography can elevate awareness and conservation efforts.
The next significant session, “Troubled Waters”, features leading figures in marine storytelling and science, including Dr. Jennifer Adler, Shane Gross, Greg Lecoeur, and Pippa Ehrlich, co-director of the Academy Award-winning film My Octopus Teacher. With moderation by Kathy Moran, National Geographic’s inaugural Senior Editor for Natural History, the discussion will scrutinize human impacts, urban expansion, and environmental disregard on marine ecosystems and outline protective measures.
Exhibitions on Marine Conservation
The Conservation Summit is enriched by five solo exhibitions within the Ocean and Marine Conservation Zone, showcasing marine biodiversity, coral reef deterioration, underwater forests, and delicate marine ecosystems through compelling visuals.
Highlighted artists include Alp Can, Greg Lecoeur, Shane Gross, Jennifer Adler, and Brian Skerry, each presenting extensive visual projects that capture the ocean's beauty and the urgent need for its preservation.
Inspirational Talks on the X Stage
On February 2, six motivational talks will take place on the X Stage, featuring speakers who will share their experiences from underwater explorations, marine conservation initiatives, and scientific research. These talks will illustrate the role of photography and film in bolstering environmental consciousness and wildlife preservation.
Topics covered will include hidden underwater life, Mediterranean marine conservation, narrative science, kelp forests, endangered species, and coral reef degradation.
Hands-on Underwater Photography Workshop
On February 3, attendees can participate in a four-hour hands-on workshop titled “Underwater Photography Tips and Tricks” led by Alp Can. Designed for beginners and intermediates, it will provide insights into diving essentials, underwater lighting, composition, and post-production methodologies.
Organized by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau, the Xposure International Photography Festival 2026 will commence at Aljada from January 29 until February 4, featuring the theme “A Decade of Visual Storytelling.”
The festival showcases more than 126 talks and keynotes, 72 workshops, 280 portfolio reviews, and 95 exhibitions featuring over 3,200 artworks. The Xposure Photography and Film Awards 2026 attracted over 29,000 photo submissions and 634 film entries from 60 nations, underscoring the festival’s expanding global influence and commitment to socially and environmentally responsible storytelling.
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