The first ever National Photography Month in the UK will launch next year in celebration of the value of photographs.

Entitled Capture and Keep, the month-long celebration will rejoice in the power of photobooks as important historical records.

Nigel McNaught, UK director of the Photo Marketing Association, explained that technology – from mobile phones to digital cameras – has meant that humans have never taken as many pictures as they do today than any other time in history.

"But, ironically, we print far fewer, meaning that we’re in danger of losing a whole era of photographic records," he said. "The aim of National Photography Month is to reverse this trend so that traditions such as family photo-albums continue in their role recording vital personal histories – rather than becoming a thing of the past."

The event includes celebrity exhibitions, events up and down the country and an opportunity for members of the public to submit their own work, which will be unveiled as part of the celebrations.

One of the highlights will be creating the world's largest photobook and the Charity Summer Photography Exhibition, which is being held in aid of national charities.

Again, at the centre of all the activities is the importance of the tangible photograph and the photobooks in which they are kept.

David Honey, chairman of the Photo Imaging Council, said: "While digital photography has opened up exciting new ways for amateurs and professionals alike to harness the medium, its fleeting nature means there is a danger these images could have no archival permanence."

He added that they were looking to build upon these technological advancements in photography by "encouraging people to think creatively about making permanent records of their images".

Other notable highlights include the Capture and Keep Campaign Bus, which will tour the country showcasing the best of British photography as well as run special workshops.

"Photography as we know it developed from its earliest days in this country. Our Society was founded in 1853 with the aim of promoting the art and science of photography," said Derek Birch, vice-president, the Royal Photographic Society.

"With our long history of exploring the potential of this amazing medium we’ll be encouraging professionals and amateurs alike to get out there and make the most of the opportunities this celebration offers."