German Photo Council Initiative

Analog / Film Photography Recognized as Cultural Heritage

by Charys Schuler / SilvergrainClassics

Film photography is an important part of the worldwide cultural heritage we share. The German Photo Council has been actively campaigning to have this officially recognized by UNESCO. It is now a big step closer to its goal!

 

Analog photography has now been officially registered in the State Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage of the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia.This has made it possible for the state to nominate analog photography for inclusion at the German federal level.
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The People Behind the Initiative

Claudia Determann from the Ministry of Culture and Science of North Rhine-Westphalia: “The State Jury … considers analog photographic processes to be an important step in the development of photography. … It is highly desirable to preserve this cultural form by passing on the underlying knowledge and skills within the group of analog photography enthusiasts...”

 

Christian Klant from the German Photo Council: “The [UNESCO] recognition process involves several stages. The nomination for inclusion … in the list of intangible cultural heritage in Germany is an encouraging first step in our quest.”

 

Thomas Gerwers submitted the application with Klant on behalf of the German Photo Council. The Council represents the interests of its members from different areas of the photography scene and is also committed to photography as a cultural asset and visual cultural heritage.

Next Steps and Timeline

The next steps are expert review of the national nomination, and confirmation by the Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs and Commissioner for Culture and Media. But a decision is expected by spring 2025 at the latest.
 
 
 
UNESCO defines intangible cultural heritage as, “the practices, knowledge, and expressions that communities recognize as part of their cultural identity, along with associated objects and spaces. Transmitted through generations, this heritage adapts over time, reinforcing identity and respect for cultural diversity.“
 
 
 
One important contribution of film photography to the cultural heritage of the entire world is the set of photos made by NASA astronauts during the first moon landing. Our magazine had a detailed article about the gear and techniques used — and it’s on sale now! Get your copy here.

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