The Collection
The Danish Museum of Photography was established by former photo merchant Sigfred Løvstad. About 1959, while simultaneously running his business in Herning, he started a comprehensive collection of cameras and equipment related to the history of the photograph. The self-governing institution The Danish Museum of Photography was established in 1983, based on Sigfred Løvstad’s collection, which he that year had donated to the museum. In 1984, The National Museum of Denmark deposited most of their collection concerning the history of photography at The Danish Museum of Photography in Herning.
The Danish Museum of Photography is a museum for the history of civilization, as well. The museum portrays the connection between technology and its utility value. This museum is the only place in Denmark, where you can experience the history of the camera and the photography during more than 160 years. The exhibition is chronologically constructed and split into decades.
The showrooms spread over 535 m2, and a series of permanent exhibitions display the achievements of the photographic technology:
The development of the camera from 1839 until today.
The camera represented by among others Kodak, Rollei, Zeiss Ikon and Leica.
A photographic studio from approximately 1900.
Jens Poul Andersen from Nellerød was a village carpenter and camera engineer. His handmade cameras and equipment are unique examples of Danish camera production, as well as excellent arts and crafts.
The first Japanese cameras.
Stereoscopic and miniature cameras.
A unique collection of handmade cameras and film equipment from the period 1930-1950.
Exhibition cases with film cameras and projectors.
A collection of photos portraying the writer of fairytales, Hans Christian Andersen.
An incredible, 1×12 m panoramic colour photo showing the entire horizon of Copenhagen throughout 360 degrees.
A large collection of portraits for visiting cards and cabinet cards.
Photos taken by Royal Court Photographer, Peter Elfelt.
The earliest photos – daguerreotypes and collodion positives, also known as ambrotypes.
A large collection of holograms with an astonishing three-dimensional effect represents the most recent technology.
Throughout the year, Danish and foreign photographers display alternating special exhibitions at the museum’s photo gallery.