Course overview

This three-hour session delves into the often-overlooked history of women in photography, from its invention in the 19th century through to the mid-20th century. From Anna Atkins and Julia Margaret Cameron to Dorothea Lange, we will explore how women engaged with photography as scientists, artists, studio professionals, and social documentarians—often working against the grain of their time. Through a rich selection of images and stories, we’ll examine how gender, access, and creativity shaped their photographic practices. Spanning early experimental work to powerful 20th-century documentary photography, this course offers a fresh, inclusive perspective on the development of the medium

Course description

This three-hour session explores the remarkable yet under-recognised contributions of women to the development of photography from its invention in the early 19th century through to the mid-20th century. While traditional histories have long focused on male inventors and artists, women were integral to photography’s growth as a scientific tool, artistic medium, and form of social documentation. We begin with early innovators such as Anna Atkins, whose cyanotypes of algae represent the first published photographic book, and Julia Margaret Cameron, known for her expressive, literary-inspired portraits. We’ll also examine the work of Lady Clementina Hawarden, Frances Benjamin Johnston, Gertrude Käsebier, and others who navigated—and often redefined—the artistic and professional possibilities of the medium. As the session progresses, we turn to the modernist and documentary traditions of the 20th century, concluding with the powerful work of Dorothea Lange, Tina Modotti, and Lee Miller. Through their lenses, we see not only artistic innovation but also war, revolution, and resilience. By situating these photographers in their historical and cultural

contexts, this session invites a richer, more inclusive understanding of photographic history.

What financial support is available?

We don't want anything to stand in your way when it comes to bringing Adult learning within reach so if you need anything to support you to achieve your goals then speak to one of our education experts during your enrolment journey. Most of our courses are government funded but if you don't qualify or need alternative financial help to access them then let us know.

What other support is available?

All of our digital content, teaching and learning activities and assessments are designed to be accessible so if you need any additional support you can discuss this with the education experts during your enrolment journey and we will do all we can to make sure you have optimal access.

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