Officers of the 68th Light Infantry, Roger Fenton, 1856

Roger Fenton, often considered the first photojournalist, was a British photographer renowned for his work during the Crimean War in the mid-19th century. Initially trained in law, his passion for photography led him to excel in capturing landscapes, architecture, and people, including Queen Victoria. Fenton's salt print photographs are sought-after collectors' items. They are at major art museums around the world, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Victoria & Albert, and the Musée d'Orsay.
 
Fenton (1819-1869) had a brief but impactful career as Britain's foremost photographer during the 1850s. As part of the second generation of photographers, he aimed to establish photography as both a fine art and a respected profession. Fenton served as the first official photographer to the British Museum and played a key role in founding the Photographic Society, later named the Royal Photographic Society.
 
In 1855, Fenton received a commission from the British government to document the Crimean War. His task was to provide a visual narrative of the conflict, aiming to influence public opinion and garner support for the British efforts. Despite facing challenges such as cumbersome equipment and logistical issues, Fenton produced a remarkable collection of images showcasing the realities of war.
 
Salt prints were one of the earliest forms of photography. They were made by sensitizing paper with silver salts and exposing it to light through a negative, resulting in images with a distinctive brownish tone. Salt prints were popular in the mid-19th century due to their relatively simple production process and ability to produce multiple copies from a single negative. 
 
Officers of the 68th Light Infantry: left to right, Lieutenant Vaughn, Brevet Major Finch, Brevet Major Lewis, Major Blount, Captain De Hamilton, Lieutenant Colonel Smyth, Lieutenant Colonel Macbeth
 
Photographer: Roger Fenton (1819-1869)
Format: Salt Print
Size: Photo: 6.25 x 6.25 inches mat: 6.75 x 6.75 inches
Condition: Good