Stereoviews
The World in Depth (Circa 1850s-1950s)
With the development of cheaper paper images in the late 1850s, a whole new era of photography was at hand.
Stereoptic technology allowed photographers to create the
illusion of a three-dimensional image. Two very similar images were created by placing dual camera lenses 2 ½ inches apart. By mounting
the developed images side-by-side on a 3 ½ by 7-inch piece of cardboard backing, a sense of depth was created when placed in a stereoscope viewer.
Click the Stereoview above to see it rendered
Stereoviews taken by photographers at interesting locations all over the world provided a safe and affordable alternative to long-distance travel.
Natural and architectural marvels appeared three-dimensional when viewed through a stereoscope. Some photographers staged comedic, romantic, or frightening scenes that customers could order from catalogues according to their particular interests.
Gallery
