Head On Photo Festival 2016

By Ben Stephens.

We are constantly surrounded by photographs that are highly double-tap worthy. The amount of photographers capturing utterly mad snaps can be overwhelming at times. Are the lenses getting better or are the people behind them? We, as Prime Minster Malcom Turnbull said, are living in the most exciting times in human history. Ol’ Turny may have been talking about the age of innovation and the Asia Pacific, US and Australian dialogue, though it rings true when discussing photography, especially in Australia. When it comes to appreciating and respecting photography artwork, it is important to “like” and credit artists, and attend photography festivals to really support those creatives.

So while you are filled with inspiration from the PM, it would be a good time to let you know that Sydney’s own Head On Photo Festival is about to hit town for the most part of the month of May. Starting back in 2008, the festival exhibits photographs that go on to be judged without the artists’ name, which then opens up a totally equal playing field. The festival also tours internationally, allowing local artists to show off their skills to a collectively huge audience.

The 2016 programme is jam packed with incredibly awesome exhibits, I can’t tell you what to see, you need to check out the full programme to really get a grasp of what stands out to you and make it your festival. However, I will let you know about the parties, because a festival is not a festival without a party or two. Be sure to check out the festival launch on April 29 at Town Hall; here all the winners will be announced and the festival hub will be officially opened, this one is never to be missed. Naturally, April 30, the first official day of the festival will see the festival party take over level three at Central Park. Both of these parties are free and are the perfect way to get familiar with the festival.

Along with the parties, the workshops are going to be pumping. Develop your ‘visual voice’ with Ron Haviv, learn how to take some rad street photography with Benjamin Lowy, Nick Hannes and Natan Dvir, lighting master classes with Michael Grecco… the list goes on and if you are looking to better your skills, this is a great time to do so with tonnes of professionals in town. #SharpenThoseSkills

Head On Photo Festival runs from 29 April – 29 May, 2016.

We’ve tailored a package specifically for Head On Photo Festival 2016… check it out.