In 1825, Claude Niépce, the brother of the inventor of the process, Nicéphore Niépce, referred to photography as a "strange, sublime discovery." More than 180 years and a significant transformation, especially in techniques, equipment, and materials, separate this breakthrough of the medium from today—but the fascination remains and even grows in the digital age. This book celebrates the many decades of experimentation and innovation and essentially accomplishes the impossible: it is a history of photography. It showcases around 250 photographs of more than 200 of the world's most famous photographers, from legendary masters to contemporary stars, in the highest quality. Divided into twelve different themes—portrait, reportage, still life, war, art, fashion, nudes, women, nature, travel, sports, and city—Roberto Koch provides a unique, comprehensive overview of the current state of affairs.