Looking back at photographs from the 19th and early 20th centuries, one striking observation is the pervasive lack of smiles. While lengthy exposure times, requiring subjects to remain still for several minutes, certainly played a role, there were deeper societal and cultural factors at play.

Cultural Norms Dictated Seriousness:

  • Smiling was often associated with silliness or inappropriate behaviour, particularly within the upper classes. A serious demeanour was prized, reflecting dignity and refinement. Portraits, whether painted or photographic, aimed to capture this desired image.
  • Early photographs were significant and expensive events. People dressed formally and approached the occasion with a sense of gravity, further contributing to the solemn atmosphere.

Smiling Had Negative Connotations:

  • A prevailing view was that smiling broadly was reserved for specific groups, often deemed lower in social standing or lacking seriousness. Smiling was linked to the poor, the drunk, the foolish, or those in the entertainment industry. This association contributed to the reluctance of individuals, especially those from higher social classes, to display their teeth in photographs.

Practical Concerns Also Played a Part:

  • Dental health was generally poor in those times. People were self-conscious about their teeth and often chose to keep their lips closed in photos to avoid revealing any imperfections.

The Evolution of Smiling in Photographs:

  • Over time, perceptions of smiling have evolved significantly. What was once considered undignified has become a universal expression of happiness and approachability.
  • The advent of faster shutter speeds in cameras also contributed to this shift. People no longer needed to hold a pose for an extended period, allowing for more natural and spontaneous expressions, including smiles, to be captured.

In conclusion, the absence of smiles in old photographs is a reflection of a complex interplay of factors, including social conventions, cultural beliefs about smiling, and practical limitations. The long exposure times of early cameras played a role, but it was the prevailing societal norms and perceptions of the time that truly shaped the serious expressions we see in those historical images.

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