Club Daguerre
Summary in English
The Club Daguerre is the leading German speaking association dedicated to preserving and celebrating the history of photography. Named after Louis Daguerre, one of the inventors of photography, the club was founded in 1974 and is focused on historical aspects of photography, collecting vintage photographic equipment, and educating its members.
Club Structure and Goals
Club Daguerre is run by an elected board of directors and operates as a non-profit organization that brings together photography historians and collectors. The club aims to preserve photographic history by collecting cameras, film devices, photographs, and relevant publications. Members actively engage in researching and sharing knowledge on photographic history, camera technology, and film processes.
Key Activities
The club is known for its robust program of activities, including annual meetings, regional meetups, and publications. These gatherings provide members with opportunities to exchange ideas, attend lectures, and participate in workshops and excursions to notable photography museums or historic sites. The Jahrestreffen (annual meeting) is a major event where members gather in various locations across Germany and Central Europe to explore photography-related topics.
Regional Meetings
In addition to the annual meeting, regional gatherings are organized in cities like Cologne, Lüneburg, Darmstadt, and Munich. These smaller meetups allow members to present their collections, engage in technical discussions, and share knowledge on restoration techniques, photography history, and specific technologies such as stereoscopic photography or Daguerreotypes. The club welcomes guests and newcomers to these meetings, making them an inclusive space for both experts and enthusiasts.
The Club’s Magazine: Photo Antiquaria
One of the club’s major contributions to the photography community is its quarterly magazine, Photo Antiquaria. This high-quality publication includes a variety of articles on photographic history, profiles of famous photographers, camera reviews, and technical innovations from past centuries. Members contribute scholarly articles, and the magazine also includes club news and reports from meetings. The magazine is considered an essential resource for photography collectors and historians.
Membership
Membership in Club Daguerre costs €60 annually, which includes a subscription to Photo Antiquaria. The club encourages those passionate about photography’s history to join and engage in its various activities. Prospective members can easily apply through the club’s website.
Overall, Club Daguerre serves as a vital hub for the historical photography community, offering educational resources, networking opportunities, and events that celebrate the rich history of photography. The club fosters a spirit of shared learning and preservation, making it a key institution for anyone interested in photographic heritage.