Picture This: The Top Photo Exhibitions in Budapest This Fall

If you’re a photography enthusiast, Budapest is the place to be this year! Several captivating exhibitions are coming to the city, showcasing the work of renowned photographers from Hungary and around the world. Mark your calendars for these must-see events:

Robert Capa Work (1932-1954)

June 21 – September 27, 2024 Robert Capa Contemporary Photography Center

In collaboration with the Goeun Museum of Photography, this exhibition presents the photographic oeuvre of one of the world’s most well-known photographers. Robert Capa worked in 23 countries on four continents, capturing defining historical events of the 20th century. His images provide a unique record of the times, conveying his unwavering empathy and humanism. Don’t miss this chance to see Capa’s brilliant work up close.

Eastern European Beauty

Contemporary Fashion Photography & the Eastern European Aesthetic June 20 – October 6, 2024 Robert Capa Contemporary Photography Center

What does the “Eastern European aesthetic” really mean in contemporary fashion photography? This exhibition explores possible explanations through the work of 17 photographic projects from Hungarian and regional photographers. See how they use a language of closeness, intimacy, and irony to consciously assume and experience an Eastern European identity. The space functions as a three-dimensional anthology, with experts also expressing their views through selections of images, photo books, and publications.

Noémi Napsugár Melegh: Így láthatsz meg engemet (This is how can spot me)

June 11 – October 6, 2024 Robert Capa Contemporary Photography Center

Winner of the 2023 Hemző Award, Noémi Napsugár Melegh presents a series documenting moments in the lives of Roma children and youth living in Hungary. Her work aims to explore the external and internal influences that shape their personalities and self-image. Through her photographs, taken in various locations across the country since 2016, Melegh sensitively captures the importance of family bonds and relationships in Roma communities.

Kékvándor – A Photographic Journey Along the National Blue Trail

April 18 – October 31, 2024 Hungarian Natural History Museum

Ten years after photographer Barna Burger completed his 1180km trek of Hungary’s National Blue Trail, capturing stunning images along the way, the Capa Center is organizing this exhibition in his memory at the Hungarian Natural History Museum. The trail’s 12 regions will be presented through 100 carefully selected photographs from the 40,000 Burger took. Special installations with lights, sounds, and moving images will evoke the beautiful, relaxing, and fulfilling world of the forests. Join this journey from discovery to recognition.

World Press Photo Exhibition

September 20 – October 27, 2024 BIODÓM, Budapest Zoo

After 48 years at the Hungarian National Museum, the prestigious World Press Photo Exhibition moves to an exciting new venue – the huge entrance hall of the BIODÓM at the Budapest Zoo. See the very best press photographs and documentary images from around the globe, chosen by an independent jury. The exhibition encourages viewers to step out of the news cycle and think critically about important themes in our world.

Kortárs Magyar Fotográfia 2024 (Contemporary Hungarian Photography 2024)

September 13 – October 15, 2024 Eötvös10 Cultural House, Budapest

Get ready for an exciting showcase of contemporary Hungarian photography! The highly successful “Kortárs Magyar Fotográfia 2024” exhibition, originally presented in Pécs earlier this year, is now coming to the capital city. Organized by the Association of Hungarian Photographers, this multigenerational group exhibition will feature nearly 200 artists from September 13 to October 15 at the Eötvös10 Cultural House. Members of both the Association of Hungarian Photographers (MFSZ) and the Studio of Young Photographers (FFS) will display their captivating works. Don’t miss the official launch of the 196-page award-winning book presenting the exhibition material at the opening event!

María José Pedroza Exhibition

September 28 – October 4, 2024 Fog – sea – snow – frost – river – lagoon

Immerse yourself in the mysterious and distant landscapes of Chile through the lens of photographer María Jose Pedraza. This captivating photo series showcases sunrises and sunsets in forests, mountains, fields, cities, and even an abandoned lighthouse. The rays of the sun shine from the side, providing the necessary light to marvel at these breathtaking vistas. Experience unique moods created by images taken at different times of day, harmonizing with the changing states of water such as fog, clouds, sea, snow, lakes and rivers. 20 stunning photographs by María Jose Pedraza await your exploration.

szépség szerelmese – Agócs József aktfotói (Beauty Lover – Nude Photos by József Agócs)

September 8 – November 24, 2024

Join us for the opening of József Agócs’ captivating photography exhibition at the theater. Immerse yourself in the beauty and artistry of his nude photographs, on display until November 24 during the theater’s opening hours. Don’t miss this opportunity to appreciate the work of a talented photographer who celebrates the human form through his lens.

Reversed Objects

Ludwig Museum – Museum of Contemporary Art Opening: September 5, 2024 at 6 p.m. Exhibition runs until November 24, 2024

The Ludwig Museum cordially invites you to the opening of the thought-provoking exhibition “Reversed Objects.” Curated by Katalin Timár, this diverse showcase features works by over 50 Hungarian and international artists across various media. From paintings and sculptures to installations and mixed media, the exhibition explores themes of identity, memory, and global contemporary issues. The artworks offer opportunities for empathy, problem recognition, and artistic expression. Immerse yourself in this captivating display until November 24.

MOME Photography MA Diploma Exhibition

Capa Center Project Room Part 1 opening: September 5, 2024 at 6 p.m. (runs until September 22)

Discover the future of photography at the MOME Photography MA diploma exhibition! This two-part showcase presents the works of the first graduates from the university’s international English-language MA program. Over four semesters, these emerging photographers have explored personal interests ranging from identity and memory to pressing global issues. The exhibited series demonstrate a wide array of contemporary photographic techniques, styles, and installation methods, reflecting the diverse themes addressed. Part 1 features Elsa Berrien, Anna Gajewszky, Lilla Ilona Sipos, Hunor Tóth, Anna Viktória Pál, and Domonkos Tas Varga. Don’t miss critic Eszter Babarczy’s opening speech!

With so many incredible exhibitions to experience, 2024 is shaping up to be a banner year for photography in Budapest. Whether you’re interested in historical images, contemporary fashion, social documentaries, nature photography, or photojournalism, these events offer something for everyone who appreciates the power and artistry of the photographic medium. Be sure to add these dates to your calendar and immerse yourself in the captivating world of photography!