July 12 is celebrated as International Photographers Day in a number of countries around the world. This day is dedicated to those who have made photography their profession and life’s mission, even in an era of rapidly developing digital technologies.
According to sea-news.az that International Photographers Day is associated with the feast day of Saint Veronica, who is considered the patron saint of photographers according to Catholic tradition. According to legend, the miraculous image of Jesus Christ imprinted on Saint Veronica’s veil is considered the symbol of the first “photograph” in history.
Later, Saint Veronica’s veil was taken to Rome and became known as “the holy image not made by human hands.”
In the Middle Ages, an image of Saint Veronica with her holy veil existed in almost every church. This tradition remains relevant to this day.
Researchers believe that the name “Veronica” derives from the Latin expression vera icon, meaning “true image.” This name was used to distinguish the image of Christ on Veronica’s veil from other sacred depictions. The legend of Saint Veronica is first mentioned in the apocryphal texts known as the “Acts of Pilate,” dating back to the 4th–5th centuries.
Another symbolic aspect of this day is that George Eastman, the founder of the famous Kodak company, was born on July 12, 1854. Thanks to his work, photography became accessible to the masses and began to develop as an independent art form.
In recent years, International Photographers Day has gained increasing popularity in various countries around the world. On this occasion, family photo events, masterclasses by renowned photographers, portfolio reviews, various competitions, exhibitions, photo quests, and other engaging programs are organized.
On this day, people have the opportunity to get acquainted with the art of photography, view early photographs and antique cameras, and follow the development stages of photographic equipment. According to tradition, commemorative photos are taken and shared on social networks.
For photographers, receiving congratulations and gifts from loved ones on this day is also of special significance. Since it is a creative profession, it is recommended to choose distinct and useful gifts. For example, lens balls that create interesting visual effects, underwater housings, weather-resistant covers, backdrops, and other photo accessories are considered excellent choices.
In addition, there is another international holiday for photography. World Photography Day is celebrated annually on August 19 and is met with great interest in many countries around the world.
It was on August 19, 1839, that the French government purchased the patent for the daguerreotype method—the first practical and widely used photographic process in history—from French chemist and inventor Louis Jacques Mandé Daguerre, and presented the invention to all of humanity. Thus, the general public was introduced to the first practical photographic method and the daguerreotype technology that formed the foundation of modern photography.
