Manifesto of Frugal Photography©
The Manifesto of Frugal Photography© was conceived by Catherine Chouard in 2026, the Bicentennial year of Photography.
Invented during the Industrial Revolution, photography benefited from technological advancements, particularly in chemistry and optics.
Two centuries later, the context has profoundly changed. Photographic practice has expanded and diversified considerably, mobilizing ever-increasing resources, notably with digital technology and then artificial intelligence.
2026 is a symbolic year for entering a new era.
The Manifesto of Frugal Photography© calls for awareness and individual and collective responsibility regarding the resources used, bringing together a range of stakeholders eager to share and enable sustainable practices that enrich the artistic experience.
To anticipate desirable interactions with other artistic universes sharing the same vision, the Frugal Photography Manifesto© takes its place within a broader movement, FRUG’ART©.
The Manifesto of Frugal Photography© is a strong declaration of intent:
ARTISTIC: to stimulate creation by integrating its impact on the ecosystem, to explore new avenues in terms of media, scenography, distribution, recycling, etc.
INCENTIVE: to fully value what we already have (cameras, old photos, paper, media, storage, digital resources, etc.)
COLLABORATIVE: to share knowledge, experiences, and resources beyond existing photography structures, to inspire one another on available or yet-to-be-invented solutions (alternative or eco-certified labs, new media, recognition of inspiring photographers, etc.)
INNOVATIVE: to invent what does not yet exist, to drive the evolution of equipment among manufacturers by increasing demand for alternative technical solutions (printers that accept solvent-free paper, etc.), to structure new sectors (recycling of Dibond aluminum, etc.)
ENGAGING: to involve all stakeholders throughout the entire lifecycle of the image industry (manufacturers, laboratories, printers, galleries, exhibition spaces, festivals, local authorities, associations, clubs, etc.) with a view to adopting and highlighting the most sustainable and responsible practices possible (appropriate print runs, recycled materials, reuse of media, shared transport and facilities, etc.).
Its purpose: To cultivate vital energy.