Every so often I bump into a 19th century photo in which the subjects are grinning. It's a rare event. Occasionally, you see a Mona Lisa smile, but it's difficult to locate an image from the 19th century where folks actually showed teeth the way we do today.
So, you're probably wondering—why the long face in most pictures?
In the beginning, I imagine that sitters were nervous in front of the camera. It was new, and having your picture taken was an uncomfortable procedure. Look closely at your early photographs and see if you can spot a posing device such as a wooden stand behind the subjects' feet. This device sometimes extended as far up as the head and had clamps around a person's waist or head to keep him still for the long exposure time. Would you feel like smiling?
Women hid under blankets and rugs to keep their babies still for the camera. There were also devices to hold babies that look like medieval instruments of torture.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
1 comment:
The genealogy program has been a wonderful resource for information sharing. We have helped one another overcome hurdles and opened doors to research areas unknown to us amateur genealogists. A new member has shared information about sites in England and offered to help others who have an interest in that part of Europe. Another member discovered a research genealogist in upper New York State and has been extremely helpful with information documenting my husband's family. And sharing success stories is an added plus. Researching and documenting your family's history is a legacy to be proud of.
Dorothy French
Post a Comment