Photokina, once the world’s premier trade fair for photography and imaging, was held biennially at Koelnmesse in Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia. From its inception in 1950, Photokina evolved into a globally recognized event where industry leaders, innovators, and enthusiasts gathered to explore the latest advancements in photographic technology, visual storytelling, and imaging solutions.
Photokina began in 1950 as a showcase primarily for German-made cameras and photographic equipment. By 1951, the fair had expanded to include international exhibitors, establishing itself early on as a global event. The fair gained prestige as a launch platform for iconic innovations—most notably, the Leica M3 camera debuted at the 1954 edition. In 1966, Photokina adopted its biennial schedule, solidifying its role as a consistent and essential meeting point for the photography industry.
Over the decades, the trade fair reflected each evolutionary stage of the industry—from the rise of color photography and SLRs to the digital revolution and, eventually, emerging sectors like drone technology, mobile imaging, and virtual reality.
Despite its prestigious legacy, Photokina faced mounting challenges. Shifting consumer habits, the rapid rise of smartphone photography, and declining camera sales led to reduced exhibitor interest. Plans to shift the event to an annual schedule starting in 2019 were postponed, and the 2020 and 2021 editions were cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, Koelnmesse officially suspended the event until further notice.
Photokina in Cologne was more than just a trade fair—it was a celebration of photography’s past, present, and future. For decades, it stood at the center of the imaging world, driving innovation, education, and global collaboration. While the show is currently on hold, its influence continues to echo throughout the photography and visual arts industries, marking an enduring legacy in the evolution of imaging.
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