As the evenings get darker and the temperature starts to drop, we're on the lookout for more indoor activities. We think there's something rather lovely about wandering around a gallery, taking in some art and debating what it all means over a cuppa. Luckily, Bristol Photo Festival is bringing photography, creativity and visual storytelling into some of the city's most exciting spaces.

Founded in 2021 by Bristol based visual arts organisation IC Visual Lab, Bristol Photo Festival is an international celebration of contemporary photography, with a distinctly local feel! Taking place every two years, the festival aims to make photography accessible to everyone, bringing together established and emerging artists from around the world while creating opportunities for local communities to engage with photography and tell their own stories.

Now in its third edition, this year's theme, 'Time Machine', explores the connections between past, present and future. The programme brings together an exciting mix of photographic perspectives, encouraging visitors to think about how we remember the past, experience the present and imagine what lies ahead.

So what can you expect? Alongside a diverse programme of exhibitions, there are artist talks, guided tours, workshops and opportunities to hear directly from the people behind the work Exhibitions have popped up across Bristol, from established cultural spaces like the Arnolfini and Bristol Museums to independent venues including Centrespace and KIT FORM. There's even the opportunity to descend beneath the city into the historic surroundings of Redcliffe Caves. It's a great reminder that photography doesn't need to be confined to a traditional gallery - it can be found in all sorts of unexpected places - just like when taking a photo.

This year's festival also carries a special significance. It's the first edition without the late, great Martin Parr, who played a key role in establishing the festival as its inaugural Artistic Director. Following his passing in December 2025, his influence and contribution to photography remain an important part of the festival's story. His iconic series Common Sense is being shown at The Welcome Building, offering a colourful, saturated and often humorous look at the details of everyday life.

We've been delighted to support the festival with a range of outdoor advertising across Bristol, helping bring the programme to the streets and get people talking about photography. 

With the festival running until 15th November, there's still time to discover an exhibition, see Bristol from a different perspective and getting cosy with a little bit of culture into those darker days (unless you visit Redcliffe Caves which are slightly less cosy but still very cool). 

Find out more and plan your visit at bristolphotofestival.org.