We’ve been working on something very big here at the Phoblographer for a long time now. The state of photography trade shows and festivals has needed a fresh new face and ideas for a very long time. And we’re here to put art lovers in front of real photographers. No algorithms. No generative AI. Just humans. And today, we are announcing the 5 Boro Foto Fest: A space for real photographers to sell their printed art in a world of algorithms and too many screens. And best of all, we’re doing it in the name of sustainability of our industry.
The First Ever 5 Boro Foto Fest Brings Local Photographers and Authenticity; Only Original Prints and Guaranteed No Generative AI.
Come say, “Fuck AI,” at the 5 Boro Foto Fest at Culture Lab LIC on October 25th, 2026. Long live the human photographer.
July 2nd, 2026 New York City between The Phoblographer, Corse Design, Mallon Productions, and Culture Lab LIC. Today, the 5 Boro Foto Fest is being announced with a scheduled date of October 25th, 2026. The event aims to do for the the arts something that hasn’t been done before: giving local photographers their own artist’s alley type of festival for them to bring authenticity to the masses. Joining the photographers will be galleries, photo collectives, and indie storefronts will gather to exhibit printed collectibles for sale. These include fine art prints, zines, books, mixed media, and various other ways that photographs are brought to life.
“I’ve been looking around at the world of photography and saw the threat that generative AI poses to replace us,” said Chris Gampat, the founder and Editor in Chief of the Phoblographer as well as the founder of the 5 Boro Foto Fest. “This event is designed to remind people that photographers are capable of making your jaw drop with moments that you don’t even notice every day.”
The 5 Boro Foto Fest, which has free entry, will bring together both new and famous photographers along with galleries, inclusive collectives, and even some of your favorite book stores that sell art books. Expect to take home prints to hang on your wall, zines to keep by your desk, books to adorn on your coffee table, and other artistic creations using photographs.
For more information visit 5borofotofest.com.
You can follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/5borofotofest/
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Quick Summary for Journalists
Who: A space for real photographers to sell their printed art in a world of algorithms and too many screens. We bring together photographers with a love for their craft — selling prints, books, zines, and mixed media to an audience that genuinely cares about the arts. No AI. All in NY.
What: A showcase of photographers and the work that they make will all be available for purchase.
When: Sunday October 25th, 2026 starting at 11am and ending at 6pm.
Where: The 5 Boro Foto Fest happens at Culture Lab LIC located at 5-25 46th Avenue, Long Island City, New York, NY 11101
How: Attendees can get there by using the 7, E, G, F, M, Q, R, and N trains. You can also use the LIRR, CitiBike, or Uber. The Q103 is the closest bus.
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About the 5 Boro Foto Fest
The 5 Boro Foto Fest is created for those who love the art of photography while supporting the local photographers by providing an avenue to exhibit and sell their printed creations. There’s a special rule that no AI-generated work can be sold as a point to have full support for humans.
About the Phoblographer
The Phoblographer is one of the largest independent online photography magazines. Their mission revolves around educating the public about the gear that they have along with helping photographers figure out how to navigate the current world where AI is trying to replace what they do. The site has helped build the careers of many photographers through its interviews and spotlight features. What’s more, we’ve worked with partners over the years to uplift the voices of women, POCs, disabled photographers, and others. Our Editor in Chief and Founder, Chris Gampat, is low-vision And through Phoblographer, we’ve worked to motivate and inspire passionate photographers everywhere. Nothing should hold you back from getting the shot!
About Corse Design
Corse Design is a collaborative firm serving innovative companies and organizations who share a passion for their craft and a desire to challenge convention. Corse is your creative partners from concept to creation, helping you to define intent, execute ideas, and deliver lasting impact.
About Mallon Productions
Stephen Mallon is the CEO of Mallon Productions, and is an award-winning photographer and filmmaker who specializes in the industrial-scale creations of mankind at unusual moments of their life cycles.
About Culture Lab LIC
Culture Lab LIC is a 501(c)(3) formed to be the arts and culture umbrella for Western Queens. We present local, national, and international art of all genres, while supporting New York artists and other nonprofits by providing space, resources and a sense of community.
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