Editorial December 2026

December is a special time. The year is drawing to a close, the days have become shorter and in many places a calm returns, giving us the opportunity to pause for a moment. For many of us, it is a time to look back, but also to look ahead: What was, what remains and what will we take with us into the coming year? These weeks in particular show how beneficial it can be to focus on things that endure - on technology, history and images that point beyond the moment.

When we look back on the year 2025, we can do so with great gratitude and justifiable satisfaction. Four strong issues of Photo Antiquaria have been published and have once again shown how lively, knowledgeable and committed our club is. PA 166 will reach you in the next few days. The diversity of the articles, the depth of the research and the care taken in the presentation make it clear that this magazine is a reflection of its members and this is precisely where its strength lies.

A particular highlight of the year was our annual meeting in Freiburg in August. The personal encounters, the professional dialogue and the palpable solidarity among the participants impressively demonstrated what the Club Daguerre is all about. Such meetings are far more than just programme items in the calendar: they are living club life and remind us that our club exists above all because of its members.

At the same time, a lot has happened in the background over the past year. Our public and internal websites have taken a big step forward. Content has become more accessible, research has become easier and internal club processes have been noticeably improved. All of this is not an end in itself, but to preserve knowledge, promote dialogue and make the club fit for the future - with respect for tradition and a clear view to the future.

Another important step was the start of more intensive cooperation with international partner clubs. The exchange across national borders opens up new perspectives and shows that our shared passion for historical photography is shared internationally. We want to continue along this path in the coming year.

Speaking of 2026: We are entering the new year full of vigour and ideas. Projects will be continued, new plans prepared and personal reunions will once again play a central role. We are always aware that Club Daguerre is not a self-running organisation. It lives exclusively from its members - from their knowledge, their experience, their willingness to share and to get involved. The board and editorial team therefore see their work as a service to an institution whose value is created solely by its members. We are very grateful for this trust and this privilege.

At the same time, we remain open to your suggestions, comments and critical feedback. They help us to stay on the right course and keep club life lively in the best sense of the word.

Finally, I would like to wish you and your families a Merry Christmas and a good start to a healthy, confident New Year. May 2026 bring you many inspiring moments with our shared passion, with best regards

Klaus Herrmann
Chairman of the Club Daguerre e.V.