Between July 1914 and November 1918, photographers documented the First World War in ways that had never been attempted before. Cameras were taken into trenches, onto ships, and even into the skies to record both combat and daily life. These images became crucial records for governments, newspapers, and families back home.
Many photographs were taken by official military photographers. These men, often enlisted soldiers with camera skills, were tasked with producing images that could be used for propaganda, morale, and historical archives. Their work included portraits of soldiers, scenes of military equipment, and landscapes showing the devastation of battle.
Photographic technology in 1914 was still bulky compared to today. Most field photographers used large-format cameras on tripods, which required glass plate negatives or early roll film. This meant setting up shots carefully, often under fire or in dangerous conditions. Exposure times were short enough to capture movement, but low light in the trenches remained a constant challenge.
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Censorship was strict. Photographers could not freely publish images showing dead soldiers, severe injuries, or sensitive military positions. Many images released during the war presented a controlled view, highlighting bravery and resilience while avoiding scenes that could harm morale.
Not all photographers were official. Some soldiers carried personal cameras despite regulations, capturing candid moments with friends or documenting life between battles. These unofficial photographs often show more relaxed scenes—meals, games, or small gatherings—that rarely appeared in the press.
Aerial photography emerged as a critical tool during the war. Cameras mounted to planes captured detailed images of enemy trenches, artillery positions, and supply routes. Pilots and observers had to change film mid-flight, sometimes leaning over the side of the aircraft to get the right angle. These photographs were used to update maps and plan military operations.
Photographers also worked behind the lines, documenting hospitals, training camps, and the manufacture of weapons. These images helped tell the story of the war beyond the battlefield, showing the vast network of support required to keep armies in the field.
Some photographers followed troops to remote fronts outside of Western Europe, including the Middle East, Africa, and the Eastern Front. Their work recorded different terrains and climates, from desert campaigns to snow-covered battlefields.
