Focaal

Focaal is a Dutch cultural journal that focuses on photography and visual culture. It was established in 1997 and publishes a new issue four times a year. The journal features articles, essays, interviews, and reviews by critics, academics, and artists. Focaal aims to provide a platform for in-depth analysis and critical discussion of photography in its various social, political, and historical contexts.

The content of Focaal ranges from historical perspectives on photography to contemporary debates surrounding digital imaging, surveillance, and the role of images in society. The journal often explores themes related to the documentary tradition, artistic photography, and the impact of new technologies on photographic practices. Its articles are typically academic in nature, drawing on theoretical frameworks from fields such as art history, media studies, and cultural theory.

Focaal is published by NAi Publishers and is distributed internationally. It is considered a significant publication within the field of photographic discourse and is a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in a deeper understanding of photography and visual culture. The journal's commitment to rigorous scholarship and its broad scope have made it a respected voice in the international photography community.