Ghosts on Film: The Rise and Fall of Spirit Photography

In the aftermath of the Civil War, a nation grieved deeply and yearned for connection beyond death. Spirit photography emerged as a powerful symbol of this longing, offering images that purported to capture the souls of the departed. Cameras became conduits for the supernatural, blending technology with mysticism.

Spirit photographs were expensive luxuries, costing significantly more than typical museum admissions, highlighting the commercial exploitation of grief. William Mumler, one of the most famous spirit photographers, faced trial for fraud but was acquitted, underscoring society’s ambivalence toward the supernatural and the unknown.

Spirit photography was part of a larger Spiritualism movement, which democratized access to the afterlife through mediums and séances. Yet, this openness also made it vulnerable to fraud and exploitation, blurring the line between sincere belief and deception.

The movement intersected with social causes like abolition and women’s rights, providing marginalized groups with voices and influence. However, exposés and confessions gradually eroded public trust in these practices.

For a detailed account of this phenomenon, Kevin Young’s "Bunk" offers compelling insights. 1 3 4