Robert Cornelius took the first selfie in 1839 and changed photography forever

In the early 19th century, Robert Cornelius, a photographer from Philadelphia, made a significant contribution to the history of photography by taking what is now widely regarded as the first selfie. This pioneering daguerreotype was captured in October or November of 1839, at a time when the art of photography was still in its infancy. Cornelius set up his camera at the back of his family's store and, after removing the lens cap, hurried into position to frame himself in the shot. The exposure required took about a minute, making this an impressive feat of early photographic technique. His self-portrait displays a unique and sultry expression, adding to its historical significance. The photograph eventually became known as the earliest extant photographic portrait in the world, a label confirmed by the Library of Congress, which acquired the original daguerreotype in 1996. The library has a robust collection of over 800 early daguerreotypes, underscoring the importance of these images in capturing moments from the past. Cornelius's contribution is not just rooted in novelty but is also linked to advancements in photographic processes. His collaboration with scientist Paul Beck Goddard helped improve on the existing methods of photography, particularly by utilizing a combination of bromine and iodine for treating camera plates, enhancing the quality of images. The long exposure times associated with early photography, ranging from three to fifteen minutes, posed significant challenges for capturing portraits. Cornelius's innovative approach allowed him to overcome these obstacles, an achievement that paved the way for future portraiture. The inscription on the back of his photo claims it to be "the first light picture ever taken," a testament to its groundbreaking status. In the decades that followed, the art of photography would evolve dramatically, leading to the instant self-portraits that are common in today's digital age. Recently, the story of Cornelius's selfie and its historical context has been revisited in lectures and articles published by institutions like the Library of Congress. As social media continues to celebrate Cornelius's achievement, the image is increasingly shared on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Reddit. This modern re-exploration reflects not only a fascination with selfies as a current cultural phenomenon but also highlights the continuity and evolution of self-representation in photography, from Cornelius's time to the present day.