Les Mesnographies, a prominent French photography festival, has announced an open call for photo submissions for its sixth edition in 2026, focusing on one of society's most challenging and sensitive topics: incest. The festival organizers are inviting photographers from around the world to submit photo series that address this deeply personal and often taboo subject through artistic expression. The submission deadline is set for October 15, 2025.

The festival aims to create a meaningful dialogue around difficult social issues by providing a platform where photography serves as a voice for those who have been silenced. Organizers emphasize that they are seeking works that reveal, question, or provide comfort without resorting to sensationalism. They stress the importance of approaching this sensitive theme with respect, strength, and artistic integrity, acknowledging that there are many different ways to address such complex subject matter through visual storytelling.

The primary goal of this year's focus theme is to raise public awareness through artistic photographic imagery. Festival organizers plan to complement the exhibition with educational programming, including a round table discussion evening featuring readings, personal testimonies, and open discussions. While acknowledging that the topic may be disturbing for some viewers, organizers believe it's crucial to create a safe space where such important issues can be examined and discussed openly with participating artists.

Selected photographers will benefit from significant exposure and support from the festival. The exhibition will run for six weeks in the Parc des Mesnuls, from June 6, 2026, to July 19, 2026. Participants will receive 300 euros in royalties, and the festival will handle all production costs for prints, which will be displayed on weather-resistant tarpaulins suitable for the outdoor venue. During the opening weekend, photographers will be welcomed by local villagers and provided with accommodation and hospitality for three days, though artists remain responsible for their own travel expenses to attend the opening.

The call for submissions is open to photographers worldwide whose work addresses the specified theme. Interested artists must submit their applications via email to mesnographiesgmail.com by the October 15, 2025 deadline. Applications should include a maximum of 20 images in PDF format, an explanatory text describing the photo series, and a biography of the artist. Organizers specifically request that applicants not use file transfer services like WeTransfer for their submissions.

When developing their photo series, applicants must consider that Les Mesnographies is an open-air festival held in a public park that welcomes visitors of all ages, including children. This requirement adds an additional layer of complexity for artists who must balance the serious nature of their subject matter with the need to create work appropriate for a diverse, family-friendly audience. The festival's outdoor setting and accessibility to the general public makes it a unique platform for addressing difficult social issues through art.