In its history photography has often been laid to rest. Yet quite the contrary is the case: Today the medium proves itself more vital and diverse than ever before! In particular, the rapid technological developments over the last 20 years have triggered a new boom in dealing with photographic pictures. All reasonable doubts about the authenticity and truthfulness of images have been unable to destroy their effective power. Instead, developments such as the simultaneity of image production and public consumption have led in the opposite direction. The fascination that still emanates from photography lies in its special relationship with the world - in a testimony of the present and the past inherent in it.

Thus, this year f/stop focuses on the concept of the documentary and on the problematics of photographic reporting - with all its promises and disappointments.

f/stop is one of the most important festivals for photography in Germany. Established by the Zentrum für zeitgenössische Fotografie Leipzig e.V. (Center for Contemporary Photography Leipzig) in 2007 it has been held annualy until 2010. After a one-year hiatus and a personal and content-related restructuring f/stop will take place every two years in the future. This year Christin Krause and Thilo Scheffler will be providing the artistic direction.

A festival catalogue designed by IG Grafik will be released by Lubok Verlag.