On October 23, 2024, Photo Club Kumanovo welcomed photography enthusiasts and art lovers to the grand opening of the 9th International Exhibition of Art Photography, titled “Photo Story.” This year’s exhibition, hosted in the club’s own premises, marks a significant moment in the club’s history, showcasing the exceptional talents of more than 150 photographers from 39 countries around the world. With six distinct sections—Open Color, Cityscape, Nude, Open Monochrome, Minimalism, and Nature—the exhibition offers visitors an impressive breadth of artistic perspectives, each frame revealing a unique narrative captured through the lens.
The judging panel was composed of three esteemed photographers and members of the international photography community: Zoran Zdravev (MPSA, KMF NPU; North Macedonia), Krzysztof Stós (EFIAP; Poland), and Maurizio Trifilidis (EFIAP, L.APS/S, EFIAF, BFA; Italy). All three judges evaluated entries across every section, bringing their wealth of experience and artistic insight to each category. Their task was a demanding one, given the high caliber and diversity of submissions that poured in from seasoned professionals and emerging talents alike. Each image told a story, and every section offered a distinct challenge—from the dynamic and vivid compositions in Open Color to the intimate, thought-provoking studies in the Nude section, and the serene, carefully crafted frames in Minimalism and Nature.
This year’s exhibition is a tribute to the power of photography to transcend borders and connect cultures. The entries in Open Color and Open Monochrome brought forth compelling contrasts between vibrant hues and nuanced shades of black and white, each piece exemplifying the photographer’s command of color, light, and shadow. In Cityscape, urban scenes from bustling metropolises to quiet alleyways captivated viewers with their ability to capture the essence of place and moment, while Minimalism invited the audience to pause and appreciate the beauty in simplicity, where subtle details revealed themselves upon closer inspection. Nature, on the other hand, was a celebration of the raw and untamed world, with photographers presenting breathtaking landscapes, wildlife, and scenes that inspire awe and reflection.
The opening night was attended by photographers, local artists, supporters, and members of the Kumanovo community, all gathering to celebrate this rich tapestry of visual storytelling. The sense of unity and excitement was palpable as guests moved from one section to the next, drawn in by the stories behind each image and the technical mastery displayed. The exhibition reflects not only the diversity and talent of the global photography community but also the role of Photo Club Kumanovo in fostering cultural exchange and appreciation through art.
“Photo Story” is more than an exhibition—it’s a journey through multiple viewpoints, emotions, and expressions. The overwhelming response from photographers worldwide is a testament to the reputation that the exhibition has built over the years, becoming a platform where both new and established photographers find space to share their unique stories. For the attendees, this exhibition provides a rare opportunity to immerse themselves in a world of diverse narratives, from the serene and minimalistic to the vibrant and bustling, reminding us of photography’s power to capture, document, and celebrate the richness of life.
