This permanent exhibition traces the technical development of photography, its applications, and societal influence through chronological displays of devices and original photographs. It features a central reconstruction of a daylight portrait studio from the early 20th century, complete with period equipment, props, and occasional demonstrations.
The 'Photographic studio' exhibition delves into the historical progression of photography, detailing its technical advancements, diverse applications, and impact on society. Visitors can follow the development and principles of basic photographic processes in chronological order, with each historical period illustrated by the relevant devices and original photographs from that era.
A key feature is a meticulously reconstructed glass studio, designed in the style of an early 20th-century portraiture studio with a glass ceiling. This immersive space contains a collection of studio cameras, technical equipment, and salon photographic apparatus, alongside period props such as furniture and painted backdrops that formed an essential part of the photography business. Periodically, the exhibition hosts demonstrations of a portrait photographer at work within this historical studio setting, allowing visitors to experience the process and even take home a photograph created using original old techniques.
Among the notable artifacts on display is the Kynžvart daguerreotype, a still-life photograph from 1839 attributed to J. L. M. Daguerre, on loan from Kynžvart Castle, considered the most valuable object in the exhibition. The collection also highlights unique photographic devices from the early days of photography in the Czech lands. An information kiosk provides electronic access to the museum's entire collection of studio cameras.