Your web browser is out of date. Update your browser for more security, speed and the best experience on this site.
Find out more
A photograph of waves crashing into the shore.
CREDIT: The Royal Photographic Society Collection at the V&A

Historical

Welcome to the Historical Group

The Royal Photographic Society's Historical Group was founded in 1972 to promote knowledge of the history of photography in all its aspects, and to encourage the preservation of photographs, photographic equipment and documents relating to the history of photography. 

The Group acts as a forum for all members and non-members world-wide with an interest in photographic history, from the early-nineteenth century to the present day. We also publish a journal, The PhotoHistorian, three times year.

Watch 'Introduction' video

Historical Group Newsletter September 2026

Our next online talk is 'Scouting for Young Photographers' with Prof. Annebella Pollen on Tuesday 29th September 2026 (1900 BST) Book here

A Call for Papers has been published for the 3rd RPS Historical Group and University of Wolverhampton Research Symposium to be held on Saturday 6th March 2027. Deadline for abstracts is 7th December 2026. Call For Papers  

Watch 2026 Research Symposium video

Book tickets for our 2026 Programme

Watch recordings of Online Talks

Follow us on Instagram Facebook and Bluesky

A photograph of a crowd gathering round a boy looking through a telescope.
CREDIT: The Royal Photographic Society Collection at the V&A
A salted paper print of a row of books in Fox Talbot's library
CREDIT: The Royal Photographic Society Collection at the V&A