Photography, derived from the Greek words 'photos' (light) and 'graphos' (to write), has a rich and transformative history dating back to ancient civilizations. However, its evolution into the medium we recognize today began in the early 19th century.

In 1826, Joseph Nicéphore Niépce captured the first permanent photograph known as "View from the Window at Le Gras" using a camera obscura and a photosensitive plate coated with bitumen. His partnership with Louis Daguerre later led to the development of the daguerreotype, an early photographic process widely popular in the 1840s.

The invention of the calotype by William Henry Fox Talbot introduced a negative-positive process, enabling multiple prints from a single negative. This advancement laid the groundwork for modern photography techniques.

Throughout the 19th century, photography rapidly evolved with the introduction of flexible film, gelatin silver prints, and portable cameras like Kodak's Brownie, making photography accessible to the masses.

The 20th century witnessed significant innovations: color photography, 35mm film, and the digital revolution in the late 20th century, culminating in digital cameras and smartphones, transforming how images are captured, stored, and shared.

Photography's history is a tale of technological innovation, artistic exploration, and cultural impact, shaping how we perceive the world and document our history and memories. Its journey continues, embracing new technologies and artistic expressions in the 21st century.