Annual observance

National Camera Day

June 29 Cultural / community observance Updated 2025-12-17

This holiday is featured in the Obscure Holiday Calendar app with emoji-style visuals, reminders, and daily fun facts.

Overview

National Camera Day, observed annually on June 29th, celebrates the invention of the camera and its profound impact on documenting history, capturing personal memories, and advancing art and communication. It encourages people to appreciate the technology that allows us to preserve moments and to engage in the joy of photography, from casual snapshots to professional artistry.

Observed each year on June 29, National Camera Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.

Why it matters: National Camera Day, celebrated on June 29, highlights the transformative role of the camera in shaping our understanding of history and personal narratives. This day serves as a reminder of the power of photography in preserving memories and fostering creativity across communities.

Origin and story

The first permanent photograph, 'View from the Window at Le Gras,' was captured by Joseph Nicéphore Niépce in 1826 or 1827.

The first digital camera was invented in 1975 by Steven Sasson, an engineer at Eastman Kodak.

Quick facts

  • DateJune 29
  • TypeCultural / community observance
  • Great forFriends, Families, Classrooms, Teams

Also on this date

Ways to celebrate

  • National Camera Day lands on June 29 — host a quick nod with Friends, Families and snap a photo.
  • Write a note or journal entry on why National Camera Day matters, then set a reminder for next year.
  • Bring National Camera Day to work or school with a short shout-out in a meeting or group chat.
  • Add National Camera Day to your Obscure Holiday Calendar app widget so you get a reminder next year.
  • Plan something small on June 29: a quick nod to National Camera Day with friends, family, or coworkers.

Fun facts

  • The first permanent photograph, 'View from the Window at Le Gras,' was captured by Joseph Nicéphore Niépce in 1826 or 1827.
  • The first digital camera was invented in 1975 by Steven Sasson, an engineer at Eastman Kodak.
  • The word 'photography' comes from Greek words meaning 'light' (phos) and 'drawing' (graphe), essentially 'drawing with light'.

Sources and attribution

Primary note: The first permanent photograph, 'View from the Window at Le Gras,' was captured by Joseph Nicéphore Niépce in 1826 or 1827.


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FAQ

When is National Camera Day?
It is observed on June 29 each year.
What is National Camera Day?
National Camera Day, observed annually on June 29th, celebrates the invention of the camera and its profound impact on documenting history, capturing personal memories, and advancing art and communication. It encourages people to appreciate the technology that allows us to preserve moments and to engage in the joy of photography, from casual snapshots to professional artistry.
How do people celebrate National Camera Day?
National Camera Day lands on June 29 — host a quick nod with Friends, Families and snap a photo.

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