École nationale supérieure de la photographie (ENSP)

Presentation

Founded in the early 1980s, the École nationale supérieure de la photographie is the only French higher education institution entirely devoted to photography. Under the authority of the Ministry of Culture, it awards national art school diplomas (up to master's level) and admits a small number of students selected by competitive examination, which allows for individualized supervision of projects.

Since 2019, the school has been housed in a new building designed by architect Marc Barani, near the parc des Ateliers, in an Arles environment marked by the presence of the Rencontres d'Arles, the LUMA foundation, and numerous players in the field of image.

Teaching and strengths

The program combines studio practice, image culture, and theoretical writing. It covers the entire field of contemporary photography: analog and digital shooting, printing and laboratories, editing and artist's books, scenography and hanging, video and moving images, as well as issues related to the conservation and dissemination of works.

The school also develops research activity in art (seminars, post-diploma programs, doctoral programs in university partnership) and workshops with invited artists, curators, and publishers.

Among the figures associated with the institution, Alain Desvergnes was its founding director; Marta Gili, former director of the Jeu de Paume, has led the school since 2018.

A fitting choice for those considering an artistic practice of photography rather than a strictly technical or commercial training.