“Capturing Life” (1839-1869)

“Capturing Life” (1839–1869) examines the social, economic, and cultural impact of photography in Cincinnati as it became a major commercial center in America’s heartland. This one-hour documentary combines interviews with rare archival photographs for a compelling look at the region’s first generation of photographers, including Ezekiel Hawkins, Charles Fontayne, William S. Porter, James Presley Ball, and Charles and Mary Waldack. The program explores how photography recorded history, shaped identity, and forever changed the way life is viewed. “Capturing Life” (1839–1869) is the first episode in the documentary series, The Big Picture: A History of Photography in Greater Cincinnati, produced by Voyageur Media Group, Inc. in collaboration with regional scholars, libraries, museums, and academic institutions.

This film will premiere at the Cincinnati Museum Center with two additional screenings at other locations during the month of October.

Artists: James Presley Ball, Thomas Faris, Charles Fontayne, Ezekiel Hawkins, William S. Porter, Alexander Thomas, Charles Waldack, Mary Waldack, John Winder

Screening Schedule:
October 9 6:30–8pm
Cincinnati Museum Center

October 17 5–7pm
The George and Ellen Rieveschl Digitorium Griffin Hall
Northern Kentucky University 
(Nunn Dr, Highland Heights, KY 41099)

October 29 6–8pm
Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library: Main Branch 
(800 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45202)