In the 1860s and 70s, photography came into its own as a result
of technological developments, the creation of a vibrant market
following the goldrushes, and the emergence of talented practitioners
(some of whom came in search of gold).
The photographs from this period give a compelling account of the
colonising process—the dispossession of Aboriginal people
and the establishment of white settlement. Those who were well off
frequently commissioned photographs of their homes and families;
these are images that speak of material comfort and privilege.
At the same time, photography served the needs of a broader sector
of society eager to own images of themselves in the form of the
relatively inexpensive carte-de-visite (a calling or visiting card).