The Swiss Camera Museum in Vevey has opened a comprehensive exhibition titled "Flash! A Brief History of Illuminated Photography," running until February 22, 2026. The exhibition explores the fundamental question of how flash photography has transformed both images and our perception of the world around us.
The exhibition features an impressive collection of major works spanning the entire history of flash photography. The showcase begins with the earliest flash experiments by French photographer Félix Nadar and extends to contemporary works by British photographer Martin Parr. The collection also highlights the iconic work of American photographer Weegee, known for his dramatic night photography of New York City's crime scenes.
Throughout history, flash and artificial lighting have played a crucial role in illuminating subjects that were previously invisible or inadequately lit, fundamentally changing how we visually construct and understand new worlds. The exhibition demonstrates how flash photography has been instrumental in documenting previously unknown territories and experiences, from the dark catacombs of Paris in the 19th century to the gritty nighttime murder scenes of New York City, and even in the world of paparazzi photographers capturing movie stars.
The technical evolution of flash photography is thoroughly examined, tracing the development from early experimental magnesium flashes to modern electronic flash systems. Each successive technical innovation has enabled photographers to create entirely new forms of representation, opening up different ways of experiencing and documenting reality. These technological advances have consistently pushed the boundaries of what could be photographed and how subjects could be presented.
The exhibition has been developed in collaboration with Photographica magazine, whose 11th issue is appropriately titled "Blinding to See: Flashes and Revelations." The Swiss Camera Museum is located at Grande Place 99 in Vevey, Switzerland, and additional information about the exhibition can be found at their website.
