The 1800s were a time of extraordinary innovation, and one of the most groundbreaking was the invention of the camera. It was first invented in 1816 by Joseph Nicéphore Niépce, who used silver chloride-coated paper to take the first semi-successful photo. This early invention marked the birth of photography, though the process was far from perfect. Niépce’s invention paved the way for later pioneers like Louis Daguerre, whose daguerreotype process would eventually make photography more practical and accessible. As the century progressed, the camera evolved rapidly, forever changing how we capture and share moments in time. We hope you’re ready to see some of the earliest photos because that’s what we have for you. Here are 17 images from the 1800s.
1. It’s hard to tell, but these guys could take out an entire army.
This is a crew you wouldn’t want to fight with.
2. I’d be rich in the 1800s.
25 cents for a meal? I’d never have to work another day.
3. The real-life Rapunzel.
Victorian women would grow their hair out to show superior hygiene.
4. You wouldn’t know it, but this man was worshiped like a rock star in the 1850s.
This is Franz Liszt, a pianist and composer.
5. A family trip to Egypt in the 1800s.
This trip probably cost around $10 back then.
6. That man can multitask.
Holding a baby and playing the banjo? Impressive.
7. They were trying so hard not to smile.
They couldn’t help but laugh because they felt silly taking a photo.
8. The original “Make a funny face.”
This woman has inspired millions of photos just like this.
9. Inside a train in the 1800s.
Someone crack a joke or something, they all look so sad.
10. Can you imagine the stamina it would take to cut this bad boy down by hand?
That takes a serious workout regimen.
11. A female Samurai.
They were trained to protect their town and household during times of war.
12. Why do they call him Hunting Shirt?
I wonder if everyone got a nickname in the 1800s.
13. This couple probably had to sit like this for nearly half an hour.
In the 1800s it took several minutes to a half hour for a photo to be taken. I’d hate to be that woman and have to stand in a position like that.
14. Wedding photos in the 1800s are just sad.
I mean you’re getting married, smile a little bit.
15. This family photo is absurdly terrifying.
I’m not sure if smiling could have saved this photo.
16. This man is dripped down to his socks.
Even though those aren’t socks, that’s how the saying goes.
17. A ranch hand from the 1800s.
It’s hard to imagine the hardships of not having modern technology.
