19 August marks World Photography Day: this celebration, created to commemorate the invention of the daguerreotype in 1839, has become much more than a technical anniversary; it is an invitation to stop, look and tell the story of the world through a lens.
On 19 August 1839, the French government publicly announced the daguerreotype, the first practical photographic technique developed by Louis Daguerre. The announcement marked the beginning of a cultural revolution: for the first time, it was possible to capture reality in a way other than with a brush and canvas.
Thanks to technology that has brought new tools for photographing and disseminating images, photography is no longer a luxury or an activity for the few. Yet photography is also, still, visual memory, an artistic tool and a bridge between people.
On this day, I like to remember its history and how, in the beginning, photography was not welcomed by everyone with enthusiasm. Some saw it as a miracle, others as a threat. There were those who feared it would steal the soul, those who thought it would supplant painting and destroy the art of portraiture - yet, over time, photography found its place: it did not kill painting, but only opened up new horizons. Does this remind you of anything? Today, with artificial intelligence, we are experiencing something similar: curiosity is intertwined with fear. Some see it as a creative ally, others as a threat to their work, their identity, even the truth. As then, we move between suspicion and wonder. Change is certainly underway – let's allow ourselves to be surprised! The important thing, in my opinion, is to remain sincere and declare if artificial intelligence has been used.
Remembering the birth of photography, on this day dedicated to it, is a way for me to remember that every technological revolution begins with a sense of fear. But if we learn to look at it with open eyes, it can become a new form of beauty - we just need to use it with intelligence and kindness.
On this special day, I am offering my photo cards at a 20% discount!
