Because of the impact of colonialism, the early history of photography in Indonesia is bound to a European vision, as the Dutch had penetrated so deeply into the workings of the homeland. Early photographers working with the Dutch—including Jurriaan Munnich, Adolph Schaefer, Isidore van Kinsbergen, Woodbury & Page—devoted their work to the needs of the colonial government, often collaborating with archaeologists, geologists, and anthropologists. Out of necessity these photographers had to work with indigenous leaders, which ultimately brought them into greater contact with Indonesian communities. The first Indonesian to emerge in photography during the 19th century is none other than Kassian Céphas, the court photographer for the Sultanate in Yogyakarta. He opened a photography studio in Lodji Ketjil, Yogyakarta. In addition to portraits of the royal family, Céphas’ work also includes archaeological photographs of Borobudur, Prambanan and its reliefs, as well as several buildings in the Sultan’s palace of in Yogyakarta. ▶11.2

Up to and even beyond the Japanese occupation, no attempt had been made for special photographic education, neither formal nor informal. Even if there were, it might be more vocational, or courses for hobbyists who later developed it towards professional/commercial photography, especially for developing portrait studios. But it is clear from the number of photo studios developed throughout the 20th century that photographic knowledge was passed through families to maintain small, family-run businesses.