FotoFest's purpose is to promote the exchange of art and ideas through international programs and the presentation of photographic art. Its programs work globally and locally, bringing together an international vision of art and cross-cultural exchange with a commitment to community involvement.

FotoFest was founded in 1983 by documentary photographers and journalists, Frederick Baldwin and Wendy Watriss, and European gallery director, Petra Benteler. The first biennial, citywide Month of Photography was held in 1986 in Houston, Texas. Ten consecutive biennials have been held every two years since that time.