The amateur photographer
The simplified practice of photography and the appearance of easy-to-use cameras making it possible to produce more spontaneous images would interest an entirely new public made up of “distinguished amateurs” who wanted to perfect their knowledge. It did not become a craze until the practice of using flexible film became widespread.
From the 1880s on, numerous photographic societies sprang into life; they welcomed both amateurs and professionals into the ranks, even scientists working closely with photographic circles. The Geneva Photographic Society opened in 1887 and the Lausanne Photographic Society was founded in January 1888. In 1889, with the support of the Neuchâtel Photo-Club, and the Zurich Photographic Club, they launched the Swiss Photography Review, a monthly periodical which covered subjects as varied as aerial photography, chemistry, art, photography and news, both in terms of photography and of publications…
Every photography society offered regular meetings to its members so that they could share their experiences, take part in conferences and demonstrations as well as in excursions. They put together exhibitions, organised competitions with prizes in the form of both medals and diplomas. Each member had access to its society laboratory and to a library, which was subscribed to various publications including foreign ones.
Access to the medium was made easier by the publicity that brands like Kodak put into operation very skilfully. Numerous works and manuals dealing with taking pictures as well as development and printing procedures were all aimed at amateurs who wanted to sharpen their eyes and perfect their techniques.