ART 150 - Introduction to Photography

Before photographic apparatus was made of plastic and metal, beautiful cameras were hand-crafted of finely polished woods, brass and leather. The golden age of wood cameras lasted from the birth of photography in 1839 to the early part of the 20th century.

As the industry moves forward into a new era of digital images, the roots of photography can still be traced in its early cameras, advertising, and references.

Stop in and immerse yourself into the world of 19th century vintage camera photographica as we move deeper into the new millennium. This website has a variety of rarely seen antique wood cameras, related history, and advertising.

An illustrated history of cameras.

Located in Staunton in Central Virginia The Camera Heritage Museum houses a unique collection of antique cameras dating from the 19th century to modern times.

The technology collection is one of the world's largest collections of photographic and cinematographic equipment. It contains nineteenth- and twentieth-century objects of photographic technology, including cameras, processing equipment, motion picture devices, and a broad range of early historical accessories. Many of the objects are unique, representing distinguished historical ownership and significant scientific achievement.