The human desire to capture reality took a giant leap forward with the discovery of the camera obscura. A 17th century term that refers both to a natural optical phenomenon and any construction or device that illustrates it, the camera obscura is key in photographic history. Its principles have underpinned every photographic process and technological development, from the daguerreotype through to the DSLR. It is no exaggeration to say that the camera wouldn’t exist without it.

As part of PhotoBangkok’s public component, four interactive camera obscuras have been stationed in front of the Bangkok Art & Culture Center. Designed by leading Thai design firm Deesawat, these small, darkened booths – each big enough for only one person – demonstrate one of the first and most pivotal discoveries in optics in several fun and engaging ways. By peeking through submarine periscopes, kaleidoscopes and colour filters you’ll see for yourself how light behaves.