Youth Photo Book Support Fund

In line with its missions to support research and creation, promote photographic publishing and provide training in critical reading of images, the Institut pour la photographie launched in 2023 the first edition of its Youth Photo Book Support Fund. In 2025, the Institut opens a new call for applications to find its next laureate, who will benefit from dedicated support over the next two years.

The history of children’s photobook publishing is closely tied to educational sciences and the development of visual learning since the 1920s. While its pedagogical aims remain central, this editorial genre has continued to expand its scope – nurturing imagination and shaping the way we see.

Held every two years, the Youth Photo Book Support Fund aims to promote the creation of photographic works for young audiences. The program provides a €10,000 grant to support the conception and production of an original French-language photobook project for children and/or teenagers aged 6 to 18.

The Institut pour la photographie invites authors, artists, photographers, and graphic designers, of all ages and nationalities, to apply.

A jury of experts in publishing, photography, and education will review all applications and select one laureate based on the submitted proposal.

The laureate will receive support from the Institut’s team and a €10,000 grant to help bring their photobook project to fruition over the two-year support period.

This program has been made possible thanks to the generous patronage of publisher Frédérique Destribats.

↘︎ Application deadline: January 31, 2026 – 3:00pm (Paris time)

↘︎ Jury meeting: April 2026

↘︎ Read the full guidelines

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Frequently Asked Questions

↘︎ Can several people apply together (e.g., two or three authors, or an author and a photographer)?

Yes, collective applications are welcome under the same conditions as individual ones.
In case of a group project, the €10,000 grant (including all taxes and charges) remains the same. The author rights payment (minimum €2,500, all taxes included) must be shared – equally or otherwise – following mutual agreement between the project members.
The group must also designate one representative as the Institut’s main point of contact.

↘︎ Can I apply if I don’t yet have a publisher or distributor?

Absolutely. Having a publisher or distributor is not a prerequisite. The Institut can assist with finding one during the 18-month creation period.
If you already have an editor or distributor, please indicate this in your application and include a letter of commitment from your partner.

↘︎ What should the mock-up (prémaquette) include?

Like the statement of intent, the mock-up should include as much detail as possible about your proposed book – such as draft visuals, format, number of pages, choice of paper, printing type, and any other technical or visual information useful for the jury’s review.
This mock-up will also be considered when assessing the proposed budget.

↘︎ How should I prepare my estimated budget?

Your budget should not be limited to the €10,000 grant. You may present a broader financial plan, identifying the grant as one source of funding.
Two requirements must be met:

• The conception and production of at least 500 copies of the book.
• A minimum author rights payment of €2,500 (all taxes and charges included).

Any remaining costs not covered by the grant are to be borne by the author or their publisher, as agreed between the parties.
No quotes or invoices are required in the estimated budget.

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If you have further questions, please consult the full guidelines or contact us at: livrephotojeunesse@institut-photo.com