#United States #Minneapolis #Photography Event #Flickr #MODE Festival

Flickr Launches the MODE Festival: A New Era for Photography

Flickr has announced a spectacular event that will change the landscape of photography festivals, known as MODE by Flickr, set to take place from September 18 to 20, 2026, in the vibrant city of Minneapolis. This three-day immersive experience promises to blend culture, creativity, and community, and is designed to engage photographers and art enthusiasts alike.

The festival will host a stellar lineup of keynote speakers, including renowned photographers like Chris Burkard, Jimmy Steinfeldt, and Brooke Shaden, who will serve as the Artist-in-Residence. Burkard, famed for his breathtaking landscapes, will share insights into his creative journey while Steinfeldt, a local talent, will offer unique perspectives drawn from his Minneapolis roots. Attendees can look forward to workshops, panel discussions, and special programming in collaboration with influential organizations such as Black Women Photographers, represented by Polly Irungu, and the Inside Out Project.

One of the festival’s unique aspects is its commitment to fostering community engagement and inclusivity. As Ben MacAskill, President and COO at SmugMug Flickr, stated, "MODE is photography in motion – alive, interactive, and deeply rooted in community.” This sentiment reflects the festival's ambition to create a space for photographers to connect beyond their devices and engage with the art form on a deeper level.

A Diverse Range of Events

MODE is structured around seven thematic pillars, including 'Change', 'Next', 'Money', 'Motion', 'Culture', 'IRL', and 'Earth'. Each theme will explore different facets of photography, ranging from emerging technologies to the environmental impact of art. Participants can take part in hands-on workshops, live portrait shoots, tech demonstrations, and engaging discussions that revolve around contemporary photography and its relevance in today’s world.

The festival does not shy away from addressing the business aspects of photography either. With a segment dedicated to exploring the financial side, aspiring photographers can gain insights on how to monetize their craft effectively. Moreover, attendees can look forward to presentations from industry luminaries, ensuring access to knowledge that can help elevate their own work.

Ticketing Information

Ticket sales have officially launched, with passes starting at $300 for Flickr Pro Members and ranging from $330 to $660 for general admission and VIP passes. Interested fans and photography aficionados are encouraged to secure their spots early, as spots are expected to fill quickly. Festivalgoers can find additional details and ticketing information on the official festival website: modefestival.com.

Minneapolis Welcomes Creatives

The acknowledgment of Minneapolis as a host city underscores the local government's commitment to the arts and the creative community. Mayor Jacob Frey expressed excitement, stating, "Minneapolis is proud to host the inaugural MODE Festival... We’re excited to welcome creators from around the world and show them what Minneapolis is all about.”

In addition to showcasing notable talent, the festival is designed with inclusion in mind, featuring accessible venues and diverse programming that reflects various artistic backgrounds. Sustainability also plays a crucial role in the planning, with initiatives for recycling and minimizing single-use materials in line with their commitment to environmental stewardship.

About Flickr and MODE

Founded in 2004, Flickr is recognized as the largest photography community worldwide, devoted to celebrating and preserving visual culture. The venture into hosting festivals like MODE illustrates Flickr's ongoing mission to bridge the gap between digital and physical art spaces. This festival is a testament to the evolving world of photography and its communities, reinforcing connections among creators.

As the MODE Festival draws closer, updates regarding additional speakers and events will be announced, ensuring attendees can take full advantage of this groundbreaking festival. Keep an eye on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, as well as Flickr's main channels, to stay informed about everything MODE is set to offer. Let's celebrate the art of photography together in Minneapolis!