Editorial March 2026

Editorial March 2026

March is a beautiful time for many of us. The light is changing, the days are getting longer and if you are out and about with your eyes open, you quickly realise that different images are now possible than just a few weeks ago. For people interested in historical photography, this is perhaps more than just a time of year. It is also a reminder of how much our view depends on light, time and attention.

With this in mind, I am delighted that the new Photo Antiquaria 167 is being published just in time for Easter. This was by no means a matter of course this time. Our previous printing partner withdrew from digital printing at very short notice, and it was quite a feat to find a new printing company in time that was both reasonably priced and met our quality requirements. I am all the more pleased that we have succeeded in doing so.

It is particularly pleasing that our editor-in-chief, Wolfgang Kuttig, was able to work with a workshop for people with disabilities for the first time to insert the envelopes, apply the address labels and prepare the mailing. This is another good example of the fact that behind every issue there is not only editorial work, but also a great deal of practical commitment.

I was also very pleased that our first virtual members' get-together went so well. The fact that 18 participants joined in at once is a pleasing sign. Of course, a format like this cannot replace face-to-face meetings. But it can be a good addition if it succeeds in not only exchanging information, but really getting into dialogue. This is exactly what we felt during our first attempt.

It also seems important to me that we gradually expand our website in a way that has very concrete benefits for our members. The expansion of "Collector's Knowledge Compact" to include the lens diagnosis section is a good example of this. Anyone who collects, buys or uses historical lenses knows how quickly you reach your limits when it comes to questions about their condition. It is therefore all the better if such matters are explained in a factual, understandable and reliable manner.

Our club thrives on the fact that knowledge is not only preserved, but also passed on. It thrives on members who take a close look, share their experiences and are willing to allow others to benefit from their knowledge. I would like to thank you for this.

I wish you a stimulating read, enjoyment of the first photographic days of spring and many more good discoveries.

Yours sincerely

Klaus Herrmann
Chairman of the Club Daguerre e.V.

PS: my pretty companion is a so-called multiplier camera of unsecured origin - a noble donation from our honorary member Jan Beenken to the 3F Museum.