Julia Margaret Cameron was given her first camera in 1863. Inspired, she established her own studio and darkroom and began photographing local residents, friends and staff at her home in Freshwater on the Isle of Wight. During this time, Cameron developed her own unique style that included works that were intentionally out of focus.

Owing to her unconventional style, Cameron's photographs were largely criticised during the nineteenth century. Her works are now embraced as significant examples of the move towards art photography.