This website presents our knowledge and research on this important aspect of the Royal Collection. As of April 2026 it will not be regularly updated and new research on this topic will sit within the main website.

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Photographic Technologies

Learn more about the photographic techniques available in the mid-19th century

    PRINCE ALFRED, DUKE OF EDINBURGH AND SAXE-COBURG & GOTHA (1844-1900)

    View of ship deck

    c. 1860

    Albumen print | 7.2 x 7.7 cm (image) | RCIN 2917634

    In early 1860, Prince Alfred made a significant purchase of photographic equipment, chemicals and plates. The Prince had learnt photography, and this purchase preceded his voyage to South Africa while serving as a midshipman on board HMS Euryalus. During his trip, from July to September 1860, Prince Alfred took a series of photograph of his surroundings. This photograph depicts the deck of HMS Euryalus. 

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