Who Nobody Smiles In Old Photos

The video explores why people in the 19th century rarely smiled in photographs, attributing it to cultural norms, fear of cameras, and poor dental hygiene. It discusses how photography was linked to death and how Kodak's influence and technological advancements in the 20th century led to more relaxed and smiling photos.

Why were wide grins considered inappropriate in 19th-century public settings?

• They were seen as a sign of mental instability.

• They were associated with wealth.

• They were linked to artistic expression.

• They were considered a sign of intelligence.

What cultural norm discouraged smiling in public during the 19th century?

• Smiling was seen as a sign of wealth.

• Smiling was associated with mental instability.

• Smiling was considered a sign of intelligence.

• Smiling was linked to artistic expression.

What was one reason people found early photography studios intimidating?

• They were located in remote areas.

• They were called operation rooms.

• They were only open at night.

• They required special clothing.

What was a common fear associated with early photography?

• Fear of the camera itself.

• Fear of the camera's flash.

• Fear of the camera breaking.

• Fear of losing one's soul.

What was a reason for the association of photography with death in the 19th century?

• Photography was considered a dark art.

• Photographs were believed to capture spirits.

• Photographs were taken of deceased loved ones.

• Photography was only used at funerals.

How did poor dental hygiene affect people's expressions in photographs?

• It encouraged people to smile more.

• It led to the use of dental props.

• It had no impact on expressions.

• It discouraged people from smiling.

What was a technological reason for serious expressions in early photographs?

• Short exposure times.

• High cost of film.

• Lack of color in photos.

• Long exposure times.

Why did early photographers tell subjects to say 'prunes'?

• To make them look serious.

• To keep their mouths small.

• To make them look surprised.

• To make them laugh.

How did Kodak influence the increase in smiles in 20th-century photographs?

• By making cameras more expensive.

• By limiting the number of photos people could take.

• By associating photography with serious events.

• By promoting photography as a joyful activity.

What change did Kodak introduce to make photography more accessible?

• They required special training to use cameras.

• They limited the number of photos people could take.

• They made cameras more expensive.

• They released an affordable camera.