History of photography

 What is photography

Photography is the art and science of capturing images by recording light either electronically or chemically. The medium is used in art, journalism and everyday communication. Detailed explanations from art focused perspectives describe it as a dialogue between the photographer, subject and viewer.

Origin of the word :- Greek terms

Photos - Light

Graphe - Drawing

First introduced in the 1830s as a scientific experiment.

Photography involves using camera to capture moments through light and shadow. It bridges technical precision with creative vision and personal expression. The captured images can be realistic portrayals or re- imagined through artistic interpretation. This dual nature explains why photography is celebrated both as a technical craft and as a fine art.

The early history of photography

Photography has evolved from chemical processes to digital techniques. Early methods relied on light- sensitive chemicals, while modern photography accessible to a wider audience.

Origins of photography

First photographs ( 19th century)

• 1826 - Joseph Nicephore Niepce created the first permanent photograph, " view from the window at Le Gras," using a process called heliography.

• 1839 - Louis Daguerre introduced the daguerreotype, a more practical method using silver - plated copper sheets, reducing exposure time.

• 1841 - William Henry Fox Talbot developed the calotype, an early negative - positive process allowing multiple prints. "The Fruit Sellers " by William Henry Fox Talbot

• 1851 - The collodion wet plate process improved image quality but required immediate development.

Development of film and mass photography ( Late 19th - Early 20th century)

• 1888 - George Eastman introduced the Kodak camera, using roll film, making photography accessible to the public.
  
  
  

• 1935 - Kodachrome is the brand name for a color reversal film introduced by Eastman Kodak in 1935. It was one of the first successful color materials and was used for both cinematography and still photography. For many years, Kodachrome was widely used for professional color photography, especially for images intended for publication in print media.

• 1948 - Edwin Land invented the Polaroid camera, which developed instant photos.

• 1960 - 70s - Advances in color photography made it more affordable and popular. 

Digital revolution ( Late 20th - 21st century)

1990s - Digital photography revolution

The 1990s marked the beginning of the digital photography revolution, transitioning photography from film based to digital methods. Key events included the launch of the first commercially available digital cameras, like the Dycam Model 1/ Logitech FotoMan  in 1990 and Kodak's introduction of the DCS 100 ( a modified Nikon F3 with digital capabilities) in 1991. This shift paved the way for instant image control, sharing and a more a accessible photography experience.

Modern day

Digital photography has become dominant, with advancements in image sensors, processing power and software. New technologies like virtual and augmented reality and drone photography are expanding the possibilities of what can be captured. There's a continued interest in film photography, particularly among enthusiasts who appreciate its unique aesthetic qualities. On other hand that focuses AI powered photography and computational imaging.