The history of photography

From its origin in 1822 to the modern-day era, photography has captivated the fascinating moments and memories of people worldwide, and its popularity through time continues to expand as technology arises continually. With the modern generational obsession with pictures and selfies it is fundamental to understand the background of photography and its modern-day effects. 

 Before the technological advancement in photography, the process of taking a photographic picture was quite different than today, and its accessibility. The prototype was the camera obscura, a dark box sometimes, a room with one hole in the wall that projected the images on the opposite wall and later traced for the final result. During the mid and late 1800s, other diverse prototypes made the process easier and more efficient. The collodion process in 1851, Dry-plate photography in 1871, and The invention of film in the 1880s are a few examples of the distinct prototypes created in the history of photography.

The popularity of photography boomed in the early 20th century due to the advancement of film technology and the production of affordable cameras for the general public. People began to explore the world of photography using it in various ways. Which Included photojournalism, Documentation, communication, and the art world. It allowed people to connect and allowed them to view different places in the world unknown to their perspectives.

Statistics show that the average person takes about twenty-two pictures daily. It’s casual due to social media platforms where people take photos/ selfies to share with followers. A phenomenal way of preserving moments with oneself and loved ones, something people have been practicing before the first photograph, With hand-painted portraits and other methods. Photography today has, however, its dangerous sides. Many individuals have lost their lives to the modern-day obsession with the perfect selfie. People’s eagerness to capture rare photos has led them to fall off cliffs, drowning, and vehicle crashes. Many tourists have gone to jail for breaking photography laws banning them from taking certain routes and pictures.

Overall, the vast history of photography and its explicit ways of showing and capturing society’s values and moments is commendable. And photography affects the world much more than some might think whether positive or negative.

Written by Widelandine Emilcar  | Graphic Designed by Widelandine Emilcar 

Published October 15, 2024 | ePathfinder | Feature