The History of Josef Seidel Photography Studio Krumlov

The history of Josef Seidel photography studio Krumlov began in 1888. Josef Seidel was a talented photographer who arrived in the city to work for Gottfried Gotthard. He eventually took over the business and built a specialized Art Nouveau house in 1905. This building served as both a family home and a professional studio. It was one of the most modern facilities of its time in Central Europe.

Seidel became famous for documenting the landscapes of the Šumava mountains. He also captured the daily lives of local people. When he died in 1935, his son František continued the family legacy. The studio remarkably survived the turmoil of the Second World War and the Communist era. It remained largely untouched for decades, hidden away from the world.

In 2005, the local development fund purchased the property to create a museum. They found thousands of glass plate negatives and original equipment inside. Today, Visit Czechia recognizes it as a premier cultural destination. The museum offers a rare look at the evolution of photography and local history. It stands as a testament to the Seidel family's dedication to their craft.

9 Highlights of Museum Fotoatelier Seidel Tours

Taking one of the Museum Fotoatelier Seidel tours is the best way to see the site. The museum is located in the Plešivec neighborhood, just a short walk from the center. Below are the top highlights you will encounter during your visit.

• Quick picks:
• Best overall: The Glass Studio
• Best for families: Vintage Photo Shoots
• Best rainy-day: The Living Quarters
• Best free: The Seidel Garden

1. Name: The Glass Studio Type: sight Why go: This is the most iconic part of the history of Josef Seidel photography studio Krumlov. It uses natural light from a massive glass roof. Best for: Photography enthusiasts. Where: Upper floor of the museum. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in tour price. Getting there: Walk from the town square. Tip: Look at the original lighting shades used to control the sun.
2. Name: The Darkroom Type: experience Why go: See where the magic happened. The darkroom still contains original chemicals, trays, and enlargers. Best for: History buffs. Where: Lower level. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Included in tour. Getting there: Follow the guide downstairs. Tip: Ask about the red lighting system used in the 1920s.
3. Name: The Living Quarters Type: museum Why go: The Seidel family lived here. The rooms are filled with original furniture, personal items, and books. Best for: Families. Where: Ground and first floors. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in tour. Getting there: Part of the main tour path. Tip: Notice the early 20th-century kitchen appliances.
4. Name: The Glass Plate Archive Type: experience Why go: This archive holds over 100,000 glass plate negatives. It is a massive visual record of the region's history. Best for: Researchers and art lovers. Where: Dedicated storage rooms. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Included in tour. Getting there: Accessible via the main hallway. Tip: Look for the digitized versions on the museum tablets.
5. Name: Original Photographic Equipment Type: sight Why go: The museum displays massive wooden cameras and early lenses. These tools are still in working condition today. Best for: Tech geeks. Where: Throughout the studio. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Included in tour. Getting there: Located in the glass studio. Tip: You can often see these cameras during special workshops.
6. Name: The Seidel Garden Type: viewpoint Why go: This peaceful outdoor space offers a view of the Art Nouveau architecture. It was used for outdoor portraits. Best for: Nature lovers. Where: Behind the main house. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free to view from the house. Getting there: Exit through the ground floor. Tip: Visit in spring to see the flowers in bloom.
7. Name: Vintage Background Paintings Type: sight Why go: These hand-painted backdrops were used for studio portraits. They depict various scenic landscapes. Best for: Art fans. Where: The Glass Studio. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Included in tour. Getting there: Displayed on the studio walls. Tip: You can pose in front of them during a photo shoot.
8. Name: Cloak Bridge Type: sight Why go: This bridge provides the views Seidel often photographed. It is a landmark of the city. Best for: Viewpoint seekers. Where: Castle district. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A 10-minute walk from the studio. Tip: Visit Cloak Bridge at sunset for the best light.
9. Name: Český Krumlov Castle Type: day trip Why go: The castle is the center of the town's history. It is a massive complex with many courtyards. Best for: Everyone. Where: Latrán district. Time: 2-4 hours. Cost: Varies by tour. Getting there: Walk across the river from the studio. Tip: Check the official castle website for seasonal opening hours.

Planning Your Visit to the Seidel Studio in 2026

To make the most of your trip, you should book your visit online in advance. The museum is popular and tour groups are kept small. This ensures a more intimate experience with the history of Josef Seidel photography studio Krumlov. Most tours are guided and last about one hour.

The museum is open year-round, but hours may vary in winter. Expect to spend at least 90 minutes total on the property. Wear comfortable shoes as there are several flights of stairs. Photography is usually allowed, but you should avoid using a flash. This helps protect the delicate historical artifacts inside.

If you want a unique souvenir, book a vintage photo session. The museum staff will dress you in period costumes. You will then receive a portrait taken in the original glass studio. It is a fantastic way to become part of the studio's living history. Prices for these sessions are separate from the standard tour fee.