Lavishly illustrated with many images that have never been published before, this book tells the story of early photography that amazed the world. It then visits a Victorian studio to discover everything that went on inside. Photography changed the world in 1839 and has continued to do so right up to the present day.

The book explores the fascinating life stories of 50 different UK photographers and describes how their work impacted on their lives and their families. Some even ventured abroad to work in America, India, Australia and Fiji.

The stories capture the good, the bad and the unfortunate – including extraordinary women and men. Some even travelled around the country in mobile horsedrawn vans.

The industrial revolution incorporated great technological change, an increase in living standards and increased disposable incomes: a perfect opportunity for photographers in business.
Some were successful entrepreneurs whilst others failed economically, socially or got on the wrong side of the law. Hanging was still an option in those far off days.

We hope you enjoy your journey back in time.