Smile! How the Smile Came Into PhotographyFrom stiff portraits to selfies05.03.2026, 10:30 Uhr
and 05.03.2026, 18:30 Uhr
Museum Ludwig

Smiling in photos feels natural today, but it wasn’t always that way.

This ArtTalk takes a fun, surprising look at how the “camera smile” became a social habit.

We’ll explore how technology (long exposure times), etiquette shaped early portraits, and how photography slowly shifted from stiff documentation to something more personal and performative - say “cheesse!”

Or course, we’ll connect the dots to the present.

Think selfies, social media, and the subtle pressure to look “effortlessly happy.”

You’ll leave with fresh eyes for what a simple expression can communicate, and what it can conceal. Join us for a revealing look at what we now take for granted 😊

💡 Long Cologne Thursday opening, free for Cologne citizens (bring your valid ID).

• 📍 Meeting Point: Museum Ludwig, Central foyer, by the column with the BLUE dot.
• 💰 Fee: €28 adults | €8 students, artists, and kids

We’ll wrap up with refreshments 🥤 and relaxed networking 🤝 swapping impressions with the ArtTalk community ✨

Join us to for new perspectives and fresh ideas 😍