Presented by The Photobook Cafe & Rapid Eye Darkrooms
The Photobook Cafe and Rapid Eye Darkrooms are pleased to present Still, Life, a group exhibition featuring the final 35 photographers selected through our international open call.
The exhibition celebrates photographers who use the camera to capture the quiet poetry of everyday life from fleeting gestures and passing moments to intimate observations of light, objects, people, and place. The selected works explore the space between motion and stillness, presence and absence, inviting viewers to slow down and discover meaning in the ordinary.
Drawn from submissions by photographers around the world, the exhibition brings together a diverse collection of analogue, digital, and alternative photographic practices. Each image reflects a personal connection to a moment, whether cinematic or spontaneous, carefully composed or instinctively captured.
The final selection was made by guest judge Elliott Gunn, whose own practice is recognised for its candid, cinematic approach to everyday environments. His photographs transform ordinary scenes through careful attention to gesture, shadow, light, and atmosphere, making him an ideal curator for this year's theme.
Alongside the exhibition, all 35 selected photographers will be featured in a specially produced printed zine, celebrating the breadth of work exhibited. Each participating artist will receive a complimentary copy of the publication and their exhibition print following the close of the exhibition.
During the opening night, Elliott Gunn will announce the Best in Show photographers. The winners will be awarded the opportunity to present a complimentary group exhibition at The Photobook Cafe later in 2026, with printing support from Rapid Eye Darkrooms and The Photobook Cafe, alongside curatorial guidance from Elliott Gunn. Additional prizes will also be announced on the evening.
30 July 2026
6:00pm – late
The exhibition is free to attend and open to the public. No RSVP is required.
Best in Show announcements will take place at 7:00pm during the opening event.
Still, Life formed part of The Photobook Cafe Public Programme, with all proceeds from the open call directly supporting our not-for-profit programme. These funds help us maintain our free public photobook library while continuing to create opportunities for local, emerging, and established photographers through exhibitions, publications, and events.
Supported by Rapid Eye Darkrooms.
Guest Judge: Elliott Gunn
Poster images courtesy of Elliott Gunn.