Every year on 19th August, photographers and visual artists around the world come together to celebrate World Photography Day, reserving the day to recognise the power of photography not just as a tool for documenting reality, but as a form of artistic expression.

Photography today goes far beyond capturing a moment in time. It is about seeing, interpreting, and creating. Every photograph involves a series of deliberate choices: from subject matter, viewpoint, and the play of light and shadow, to focus, framing, and timing. Through these choices, photographers tell stories, express emotions, and share unique perspectives of the world.

Here in Malta, the Malta Photographic Society is marking the occasion with a special exhibition titled ‘From Viewfinder to Print’. Founded in 1961, the Society has been the cornerstone of Malta’s photographic community for over six decades, supporting both amateur and professional photographers while promoting photography as an ever-changing, expressive art form. Through lectures, workshops, photo walks, mentorships, and curated exhibitions, the Society fosters an evolving creative community.

This year, for the third consecutive year, the Society is presenting a curated exhibition showcasing the work of 46 individual members. The exhibition features a diverse array of styles and subjects, from minimalist compositions and still-life studies to street photography, expressive portraiture, and abstract visual storytelling. Each print reflects the photographer’s personal vision and interpretation, reminding us that in an age flooded with images, true photographic art is defined by clarity, creativity, and vision.

The exhibition is held at the historic Wignacourt Museum in Rabat, the former baroque residence of the Chaplains of the Knights of St. John, situated next to the Basilica of St. Paul. This heritage venue adds a sense of gravitas, perfectly complementing the artistic journey of each photograph – from the spark of inspiration behind the viewfinder to the final printed work on display.

The Malta Photographic Society invites the public to experience this celebration of photographic art. The exhibition is currently open with free admission, running till Sunday 31st August, open Monday to Sunday from 09:30 to 17:00, with last admission at 16:00.

How will you be celebrating World Photo Day?