In pictures: French voters at play

Joël and Gilles, 42

"We are a same-sex couple with an adopted child and are voting for Segolene Royal.

"She is the only candidate who has promised to recognise the rights of the second parent in same-sex couples - a crucial question for us.

"We will continue to fight on this issue. If Sarkozy goes through there will be considerable mobilisation over various issues concerning rights.

"He wants to control people's lives."