Although photography was first used in a very technical and scientific manner for the purpose of documentation and a physical means of creating memories, the act of photography has evolved to become a fine art.
Photography as an art form first emerged in the 19th century with the invention of the heliograph technique led by Frenchman, Joseph Nicéphore Niépce in 1822.
The first photographic image was View from the Window at Le Gras, which was produced around 1827 and is currently housed at the Harry Ransom Center at the University of Texas.
Julia Margaret Cameron was one of the most famous photographers of the 19th century whose work in portraiture and exploration of everyday Victorian life captured a unique view of 19th-century society.
Imogen Cunningham was one of the most famous classic photographers of the 20th century who specialized in botanical photography, nude art, and industrial landscapes.
With an extensive photographic portfolio covering a diverse array of subjects from across Africa, Europe, and the Americas, Strand was an icon of his time.
Man Ray was among the most popular photographers of the 20th century whose images have influenced the understanding of photography as more than a technical documentation process and more as a creative practice.
Dorothea Lange was a pioneer in the field of documentary photography and one of the most popular photographers during the Great Depression in 1930s America.
Ansel Adams was one of the most famous photographers of American landscape art and environmental conservation throughout the 20th century. Adams was one of the founding members of Group f/64.
Taro’s brief career in wartime documentary images and photojournalism during the Spanish Civil War had a significant impact on the genre of modern war photography.
Goldin’s photographic oeuvre includes her snapshot documentation of intimacy and bohemian culture of the city during the HIV/AIDS crisis as well as sexuality and love within the LGBT community.
Sherman is most famous for her exploration of artificial beauty, gender roles, and identity, which was captured beautifully in her series Untitled Film Stills (1977-1980).
LaChapelle is most famous for his work in commercial fashion portraiture, which integrates elements of Surrealist photography while drawing from various iconic art historical pieces.