1920s Portrait of a Pioneering French Inventor

This photograph features Edouard Belin, captured between 1920 and 1925. Belin was a French inventor notable for his advancements in the field of photography and telecommunications. He is best known for developing the Belinograph, an early form of aerial photography that utilized a special film to capture images from the air. This innovative technique laid the groundwork for modern aerial photography, significantly impacting various industries including aviation, mapping, and surveillance.

Published in the Evening Journal of Wilmington, Delaware, on January 18, 1923, this image reflects a pivotal time in photographic history, showcasing the experimental spirit of the era. The photograph was provided by the Bain News Service, a prominent picture agency known for documenting contemporary events and notable figures of the early 20th century. Through this image, we gain insight into the life and contributions of a key figure in photography, an industry that has greatly evolved since Belins time.