Victorian 'peeping Tom' used spy camera in 1890s to secretly photograph people

ladies photographed by Carl Størmer spy camera
(Image credit: Carl Størmer)

Candid captures can sometimes be frowned upon when the subject is unaware that they’re being photographed, but on the other hand it can be used as a tool to provide us with historical insight into the 1890s Norwegian lifestyle. We have Carl Størmer to thank for this, taking sneaky street shots using a spy-style camera while studying at University. 

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Beth Nicholls
Staff Writer

A staff writer for Digital Camera World, Beth has an extensive background in various elements of technology with five years of experience working as a tester and sales assistant for CeX. After completing a degree in Music Journalism, followed by obtaining a Master's degree in Photography awarded by the University of Brighton, she spends her time outside of DCW as a freelance photographer specialising in live music events and band press shots under the alias 'bethshootsbands'.