Every year on August 19, the world celebrates World Photography Day, a global tribute to the art, science, and impact of photography. The 2025 theme is “My Favorite Photo”, encouraging photographers and enthusiasts alike to share the image that holds the most meaning to them, along with the story behind it. This year’s theme emphasizes the personal connection and emotional power that photography brings into our lives.
Theme of World Photography Day 2025
The official theme for 2025 is “MY FAVORITE PHOTO.”
Participants are invited to,
- Share their favorite photographs on social media.
- Include a story or memory behind the image.
- Use hashtags #WorldPhotographyDay and #WorldPhotographyDay2025.
- This year’s theme highlights how photography is not only about skill or technique but also about capturing moments that resonate deeply with us.
World Photography Week 2025
Running from August 12–26, 2025, World Photography Week encourages people to share meaningful photographs regularly, using the tag #WorldPhotographyWeek.
Activities include
- Sharing personal photos with stories.
- Discovering and following global photographers.
- Liking, commenting, and promoting images that inspire creativity.
- This initiative aims to create a global community event and give visibility to both professional and amateur photographers.
History of World Photography Day
- 1826: Joseph Nicéphore Niépce produced the first permanent photograph.
- 1837: Louis Daguerre invented the Daguerreotype process, the first commercial photography method.
- 1839: On August 19, the French government made the process freely available to the world—marking the origin of World Photography Day.
Since then, photography has evolved into a universal medium of communication, preservation, and art.
Importance of Photography
- Preservation of History: Photos capture civilizations, heritage, and major events.
- Social Change: From wars and disasters to freedom struggles, images document humanity’s greatest challenges.
- Medium of Art: Photography allows expression of creativity, beauty, and emotions.
- Information & Communication: Vital in journalism, documentaries, and social media.
- Business & Innovation: Crucial in advertising, fashion, cinema, tourism, and science.
Photography in the Digital Age
- Smartphones & digital cameras have democratized photography.
- Social media platforms (Instagram, Facebook, X) enable global sharing.
- New technologies such as drone photography, 360° imaging, and AI-powered editing have redefined how photos are captured and consumed.
Global Activities on World Photography Day
- Photo exhibitions, competitions, and workshops held worldwide.
- Special programs by UNESCO, National Geographic, and art institutions.
- Photographers—both amateur and professional—share their most impactful works online.
Contribution of Photography in India
19th century: Photography introduced during the British period.
Pioneers
- Homai Vyarawalla – India’s first female photojournalist.
- Raghu Rai – Globally acclaimed photographer, member of Magnum Photos.
- Today, India hosts photo festivals, exhibitions, and digital photography communities, making it a vital part of the global photography movement.