Nicephore Niepce

Nicéphore Niépce

1. Name three or more specifics about this person's life.

Nicephore Niepce was born on March 7, 1765, in Chalon-sur-Saône, France. He was famous for his experimentation and development in photography, as well as playing a part in the invention of the internal combustion engine. He served as an officer in the French Army under Napoleon before retiring due to health and popularity issues.

2. What photograph was he known for?

Niepce is best known for his photograph entitled View From the Window at Le Gras.

3. What was noteworthy and important about this photograph?Niepce's photograph was the first permanent photograph in the world, taken using a camera obscura and a pewter plate coated in a bitumen mixture

4. Where was the photo taken?

The photo was of Niepce's estate from an upstairs window, located in Saint-Loup-de-Varennes, France.

5. How long did it take to make the exposure?

Niepce left the plate exposed for eight hours, explaining the sunlight shining on both sides of the building.

6. What year was the photo taken?

The photo was taken in 1836.

7. Where is the photo currently housed?

The photograph resides on display in the main lobby of the Harry Ransom Center, an archives building at the University of Texas at Austin.