A female lens

Since the beginnings of photography, women have been both in front of and behind the camera. In this exhibition, we explore how women have used the power of photography to express themselves and take control of their public image.

From the humble selfie to the use of striking images to showcase social justice issues or to subvert stereotypes, women have used – and continue to use – the photographic medium to tell their stories, their way.

This exhibition provides a glimpse into some of the women who changed the art of photography and society - there are many more and we’d love you to share your favourites with us on social media, tagging Europeana and #WomensHistory.

To read more stories about women’s lives throughout history, visit our women’s history page.