Look: From everyday life to war, how 400 photographers are provoking thought at Sharjah show

More than 2,500 unique visual stories told through the lens of 400 accomplished photographers are on display at 8th the Xposure International Photography Festival (Xposure 2024) that opened on Wednesday at Expo Centre Sharjah.

Running until March 5, Xposure 2024 takes visitors to a graphic journey capturing different human perspectives and emotions – from the mundane to the philosophical; joys of everyday life to human travails, wars and epic disasters. Some photos are obscure and oblique but others are serious and straightforward with their messages of hope, fear, love, hate, sadness, happiness, joy and celebration.

From portraiture to nature and wildlife photography; documentary and photojournalism, landscape, travel, adventure and sports, the visual elements attract visitors to stop, look and peer through the images froze in a single moment in time for posterity.

Each picture is also a testament to the photographer's emotion, perspective and intention at the time he/she pressed the button to capture the moment. And these are told during the workshops, talks and small-group discussions spread throughout the weeklong photography festival.

Provoking thoughts

Some of the renowned photographers are present themselves to speak with the visitors to share their visual journey.

Hong Kong-born photojournalist Nicole Tung, who has been documenting the effects of war, humanitarian crises and natural disasters in the Middle East and other parts of the world, said: “Being here today is a necessary reminder of what images can do to provoke thought.”

“What does it take for these images to be made? These are but a few examples of the reality of the world we live in today. These are the stories that ought to make us question what our place is in this world – and what we can do collectively to protect the world,” she added.

More than sharing images

Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and chairman of the Sharjah Media Council, echoed the powerful role of photographers in championing pressing global issues. He said. “If images could speak, they would say, ‘I will amplify the efforts of those striving for positive change. I will showcase injustice to pave the way for love and justice’.”

“One example is Gaza,” he added, noting: “The tragedy of more than two million people who are besieged, starved and (have been) constant targets, has pushed the entire world to reassess previously held beliefs about international values and norms, the human rights system, the role of the individual in making change, and their humanitarian duty towards others,” he added.

Xposure 2024 also paid a moving tribute to more than 85 journalists and media workers who have lost their lives trying to offer a glimpse into the lives of besieged Palestinians in a devastating war.

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