French photography has a rich history that dates back to the invention of the camera in the 19th century. Pioneers like Louis Daguerre and Nicéphore Niépce played crucial roles in developing early photographic techniques, leading to the popularization of photography as an art form. The Daguerreotype, one of the first successful photographic processes, became widely used in France and beyond. Throughout the years, French photographers such as Henri Cartier-Bresson and Robert Doisneau have made significant contributions to the field, capturing everyday life and human emotions. The French New Wave in cinema also influenced photography, emphasizing spontaneity and a documentary style that continues to inspire contemporary photographers today.