Weimar, Germany

First Light

+++ Due to the current pandemic, please bear in mind that the provided information may change depending on COVID regulations . For more information don't heistate to contact us+++

How did early studies of light and optics influence the advancement of industrial economies, art, and human perceptions of self, time and space? First Light is a tactile investigation of the principles of Photography’s scientific and creative foundations, providing theoretical perspectives and applied strategies for contemporary artists and designers.

With a hands-on approach- the chronicle, materials, and methodologies of proto and early photography will be examined and employed. Participants will review, test and apply refracted light projections, design and implement camera obscura installations, review early optical design, as well as indulge non-silver and silver-halide materials to create original visual works on paper, glass, metal and more.

In addition to the class programme, we have prepared a varied social programme for you: Meet participants from all over the world during our gaming night, the international food evening, at a joint free visit to the cinema, on a trip to Berlin or Leipzig or when diving into the vast cultural options that Weimar has to offer.

We look forward to welcoming you!

Course leader

Assoc. Prof. Stephan Jacobs

Target group

The course is designed for photographers, artists and designers, as well as creative and curious students of all disciplines.

Course aim

The workshop’s pairing of quotidian materials with complementary digital imaging technologies offer interpandemic-era participants an opportunity to work safely and intensively with tangible materials and processes in the field, independent of sanctioned photography laboratories and studios. Contingent of prevailing health regulations, regional excursions to primary optical and camera archives will complement the course.

Fee info

EUR 700: 2 weeks (90 hrs)

The course fee is 700 EUR.

The course fee includes:

• Orientation & Support
• Programme according to description
• Teaching materials
• Bauhaus Summer School ID card
• Free use of buses in Weimar and local trains in Thuringia
• Certificate
• Internet access at the Bauhaus-Universität Weimar
• Free use of library
• Accompanying programme (except excursions)
• Free entrance to museums belonging to Klassik Stiftung Weimar
EUR 500: 2 weeks (90 hrs)

The course fee for students & alumni is 500 EUR.
The course fee for BUW students is 300 EUR.

The course fee includes:


• Orientation & Support
• Programme according to description
• Teaching materials
• Bauhaus Summer School ID card
• Free use of buses in Weimar and local trains in Thuringia
• Certificate
• Internet access at the Bauhaus-Universität Weimar
• Free use of library
• Accompanying programme (except excursions)
• Free entrance to museums belonging to Klassik Stiftung Weimar