Lesson

Lesson 1: History of Photography

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Lesson

Lesson 1: History of Photography

Lesson Objective: I can identify the stages of photography and explain how Wales played an important role in the early history of photography.

What are some important stages of photography?

In order to capture the perfect picture, there are a few steps we will need to take:

Planning
Shooting
Editing
Presentation

Mindful Activity 1

History of Photography
Photography in Wales has very strong routes, due to our rich landscapes and history.

Margam Park, was the home of many famous early photographers who were early pioneers in pinhole photography.

The Dillwyn Llewelyn family had strong connections to Margam and the surrounding area in Neath Port Talbot. During the early years of photography, estates like Margam Park provided ideal locations for photographers to experiment.
With its:

Open landscapes
Historic buildings
Natural features like trees, water and gardens


William Henry Fox Talbot (1800 – 1877) was an English scientist and inventor who helped create photography as we know it today. He developed the calotype process, which allowed multiple copies of a photograph to be made from a single negative. Although Talbot did not live in Neath Port Talbot, he worked closely with people in South Wales, sharing ideas and techniques that helped photography develop in this area.	John Dillwyn Llewelyn (1810 – 1882) was a Welsh scientist, photographer and landowner who lived in South Wales. He was part of an influential family connected to industry, science, and culture in the region. He lived at Penllergare Estate near Swansea, where he carried out many of his photographic experiments. His lifestyle allowed him time and space to explore photography, science, and nature. His achievements are: Built his own photographic equipment and darkrooms Took photographs of plants, landscapes, and local surroundings Experimented with early techniques alongside Talbot

Mary Dillwyn (1816 – 1906) is recognised as one of the first female photographers in Wales. She is known for: Taking natural, informal photographs of family and friends Capturing everyday life rather than staged portraits Using smaller cameras, allowing for more relaxed images Her work is important because it shows a more personal and creative side of early photography, at a time when most images were very formal.	Emma Dillwyn Llewelyn was closely connected to the early development of photography through both her family and her marriage to John Dillwyn Llewelyn. She was involved in the photographic process, including: Assisting with developing and handling photographs Supporting early photographic work at home Although fewer of her images remain, she played an important role in the development and practice of photography within the family.