Tourists visit the 25th Pingyao International Photography Festival held in Pingyao, Shanxi province, on September 19. [Photo by Wei Liang/provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The ancient city of Pingyao in Jinzhong, Shanxi province, became a vibrant hub for the 25th Pingyao International Photography Festival, which kicked off on Friday. This year, the festival has attracted more than 5,000 photographers from 34 countries and regions, and 25 provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities across China, with more than 20,000 works submitted for exhibition.

Chang Shuming, Party secretary of Jinzhong, remarked on the festival's enduring commitment over the past 25 years to invigorate art, academia, and industry through the language of photography, and promote the gradual professionalization, diversification, and internationalization of Chinese photography.

This year's theme, "Breaking Boundaries, Intelligent Insights into the Future," emphasizes the integration of technological innovation and artificial intelligence to enhance the new, quality productive forces of photography. The festival aims to foster a closer intertwining of technology, art, and society, setting a new foundation for integrated innovation.

The festival is structured around five main sections: exhibitions, competitions, trade, activities, and educational institutions, divided into 15 units. These cover various aspects of photographic creation, market transactions, academic exchanges, and activities.

Tourists visit the 25th Pingyao International Photography Festival held in Pingyao, Shanxi province, on September 19. [Photo by Wei Liang/provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Internationally renowned photographers such as Carmen De Vos from Belgium and Clare Marie Bailey from the United Kingdom are showcasing their works and engaging with the Chinese public during the festival.

A special "PIP Curator Training Program" has been introduced this year, where participants will undergo curatorial training and practice in both Pingyao and Bottrop, Germany, cultivating curatorial talent with international perspectives and local insights.

Since its inception in 2001, the Pingyao International Photography Festival has attracted participants from over 100 countries and regions, totaling 50,000 photographers and 370,000 works. The festival has drawn 5 million visitors worldwide, establishing itself as a significant platform for China's engagement with the global community.