:unmittelbar – the German instant photography scene showcases its work in Berlin

Artificial intelligence is flooding us with digital images. People can barely withstand this deluge and can no longer trust their own eyes. In the world of photography, instant photographers are bucking this trend: every instant photo is an original—a unique, one-of-a-kind piece. From July 24 to August 1, 2026, the Deutsche Sofortbild Kunst e. V. (German Instant Photography Art Association) will present its fourth exhibition showcasing trends in analog instant photography. Fifty artists from across Germany will display their latest works at the Kunsthaus Bethanien in Kreuzberg.

The exhibition, titled “:unmittelbar” (meaning “immediate” or “direct”), invites visitors to discover—or reconnect with—Germany’s instant photography scene. Exhibits range from classic landscape, portrait, and nude photography to techniques involving mechanical manipulation and even chemical alteration of the film material itself.

“The analog medium still operates in the classic sense, ‘drawing’ with light onto the physical material of the instant photo. It relies not only on the laws of optics but also on the principles of slowness and mindfulness,” says Enrique Freaza, a member of the association’s Berlin-based organizing team. “At the same time, the artistic range of the medium is surprising.” The works on display go far beyond mere photography, clearly distinguishing themselves from digital imagery.
“Instant photography teaches us to be more patient and to view the world more consciously,” emphasizes Sabine Skodda, the association’s chairwoman. While digital images allow for precise capture, rapid collection, and instant retrieval, the instant photo offers a lesson in accepting imperfection. Instant photography does not aim for flawlessness or precision. “Her strength lies in translating emotions and creating moments of surprise that resemble little miracles,” says the artist. The instant image is both temporal and physical. “This makes these unique pieces a clear counterpoint to the virtual stream of images of our time.”

NEW: ARTIST RESIDENCY
“From the Forest to the City”
During the exhibition, Ina Echternach will work live in the Kunstquartier Bethanien project space for one week. Drawing on her usual Polaroid practice—which is deeply rooted in nature—she explores how the big city alters her artistic perspective.
Ina Echternach will be present in the exhibition space daily from July 27 to 31, 2026 (Monday through Friday), between 3 – 8 pm. Visitors are warmly invited to observe her creative process and engage in conversation. This format is being tested as a pilot project this year and will be evaluated afterwards; if the response is positive, the artist residency is intended to become a regular feature starting with the next edition of :unmittelbar.

Website: sofortbildkunst.com | Instagram: @sofortbildkunst

With works by: