Picture stories are a way to convey narratives through a series of images that collectively tell a story or evoke a particular mood. When doing street photography in a place like Saint-Malo, picture stories can be used to document the essence of the city, capturing its atmosphere, people, and daily life in a visually compelling way.

They allow the photographer to go beyond single moments and instead present a broader, more nuanced view of the surroundings.

In Saint-Malo, a photographer might use a picture story to capture the rhythms of daily life—locals going about their business, fishermen preparing boats in the harbor, or street vendors selling goods in the market. Each image can be a chapter in the story of the city’s lifestyle.

It’s a city steeped in history, with its fortified walls, cobblestone streets, and old-world architecture. A picture story could capture the contrast between the historical aspects of the city and modern life, showing how the old and new coexist. This could include shots of tourists exploring ancient buildings or modern street art juxtaposed against centuries-old stone walls.

Picture stories can focus on the unique cultural elements of Saint-Malo. This could include capturing the Breton culture through traditional clothing, festivals, or the distinct maritime heritage of the city. A series of photos could tell the story of local customs, such as the importance of seafood to the region, showing fishermen at work, bustling markets, and plates of fresh oysters being served.

Street photography lives off candid shots of people in public spaces. In Saint-Malo, a photographer might tell a story of human connection, loneliness, or community by capturing fleeting moments like children playing on the beach, elderly couples walking along the ramparts, or locals sharing a drink in a café. Each image contributes to an emotional narrative about life in the city.

It is also a coastal city, and its environment shifts dramatically with the tides. A picture story could explore the transformation of the same street or beach at different times of day—during high and low tides, bustling with tourists in summer, or quiet and deserted in winter. This approach can tell a story about the passage of time and the ever-changing nature of life in a seaside walled town.

So generally picture stories in Saint-Malo street photography help convey the city’s multifaceted character. They document individual scenes and weave together a larger narrative that can show this place’s spirit, culture, and history. Through thoughtful sequencing, a photographer can create a powerful visual journey that interests viewers into the picture story sequence.

By the beginning of the 16th-century Basque fishermen were travelling near Canada to fish. Basques were fishermen and sailors which had greater expertise and a specialised group within whaling and fishing, controlling the fishery along la haute main (northeast coast) for over a century. By 1580, around 10,000 European fishermen were making the transatlantic voyage to the area each year in order to fish for cod.

This methodology of sea travel in order to fish for food intrigued the Jersey people alongside the Channel Islands, for example Guernsey, to get involved greatly as lucrative trade routes were and still are, crucial to Jersey’s survival. This pioneered the development of fishing tactics for Jersey fisherman alongside finding ways to ease the imports of food Jersey receives. Because of this, Jersey’s food production economy has shrunk over coming years, resulting in potatoes being near enough the only food source grown and sold – 98% of food sources being imported on vessels from the UK and Europe.

The sea has become a large factor within Jerseys culture, identity, geography, history and economy and has intrinsically helped shaped these.

During the Middle Ages, a large sum of piracy/raiding took place by Vikings, causing jersey to employ many Viking words within the old Norman-French language of Jèrriais to do with fishing, farming, ships and the sea. These include:

• bete, bait, beita ;
• dranet, draw-net, dragnet;
• flie, a limpet, flie;
• greer, to rig, greidi;
• haler, to haul, hala;
• crabe, a crab, krabbi;
• mauve, a seagull, mar.

Piracy in the Channel Islands concluded when Sark became colonised in 1563 by Hellier de Carteret, leaving some pirates hiding out in isolated French and English bays, some sailing up from places such as Turkey too in order to ransom valuable captives or keep them as slave workers.

INVOLVEMENT OF JERSEY MARINERS:

The fishermen of the Channel Islands, many from Jersey, had set up lucrative trade routes between Canada, Europe and America by the 1750s, establishing bases on the Gaspé Coast where they could salt and prepare the cod.  The Gaspé Coast is an area which follows along the St. Lawrence River extending from the Matapedia Valley in Quebec, Canada, into the Gulf of St. Lawrence. This area provided great ease when fishing in the open sea, available at any time of year however fishing closer to the coast was a more difficult task, allowing the Jersey fishermen to obtain great catches.

One of the biggest companies on the Gaspé coast was operated by Charles Robin, a Jersey merchant, who set up a fishing post at Paspebiac in 1767 after Canada passed to the English. After the American Revolution had died down, he took advantage of the lack of competition to set up a fishing monopoly in 1783 to reap the benefits of the cod trade.

Within Gaspé, despite the fact they were a minority, the Jersey community settled it nicely, speaking Jèrriais in their businesses and day to day lives, almost transforming the Gaspé coast between these years into a Jersey colony. The Jersey people became the economic giants of Quebec. Alongside this, islanders would receive concessions from the people of Newfoundland or the Gaspé coast such as the dried cod produced as well as cloth, wine, wool, leather and household goods. 

However, this would all come to an abrupt ending when problems concerning finance and the disappearance of the cod trade appeared, causing a dwindling of this renowned Jersey fishing company. In the 1870s and 1880s they suffered a credit crunch, as the Jersey banks crashed leaving many companies in huge debt. For example, the Jersey Banking Company crash in 1883, came about due to the bank manager, Philip Gosset, gambling with the funds – a bank of which many Canadian-Jersey companies had borrowed heavily from.

When the banks crashed, vast sums that had been made during the fishing monopoly years were wiped out. The credit system, where fishermen would receive all they needed from the company insured against future catches, also left many workers heavily in debt to their employers. This meant the end of these monopoly trading years.

Which ports did Jersey ships sail to and trade with?

The effort towards building harbours didn’t become a concern until the late 17th century, with work beginning on the islet of St Aubins building a pier. It was the 18th century when St Aubins harbour was finally constructed, followed by the development of building a port in St Helier too, however this only began to develop as a port properly towards the 19th century due to the need to raise capital. This then sent forth the movement to developing stone piers at La Rocque, Bouley Bay, Rozel, to accommodate the oyster boats, alongside Gorey which took passenger traffic from Normandy.

What type of goods did Jersey merchants exchange for cod-fish?

The Jersey merchants exported their findings of cod to places like the West Indies, the Caribbean and other British Colonies to trade for plantation goods. This consisted of sugar, molasses (a thick syrup that people use as a sweetener), rum, tobacco and cotton alongside oils, skins and several types of fur.

In order to export the cod, the fish were dried, salted and dispatched in various wooden tubs weighing about 112lbs. This procedure was done as it meant that the fish would be preserved longer and wouldn’t arrive in an unacceptable state.

Has the island of Jersey benefitted from its constitutional relationship with Britain and the legacies of colonialism based on a slave plantation economy during the first Industrial Revolution (1760-1840)?

During these times, many Jersey merchants either owned or traded using mahogany, tending to have mahogany plantations in British Honduras – a crown colony south of Mexico renamed to Belize in 1973. The mahogany industry was built through enslaved peoples harvesting, dragging and rolling felled mahogany trunks to riverfronts, then floating the logs, which were chained together, to ships waiting in bays full of sharks and coral reefs.

For example, Sir George Carteret – founder of New Jersey, was a founder of the Company of Royal Adventurers into Africa where he would trade in enslaved people, ivory and gold. As well as this, Aaron de St Croix and brothers, James and Clement Henry and Co, George Mauger, Francis Valpy, Francis Alexandre Bradley and George Le Geyt were identified as being part of the mahogany industry.

This trade connection was provided through boats and ships, one being the Speedwell. For example, leaving London in 1663, the Speedwell initially picked up 302 enslaved people at Offer, Benin, followed by the selling of 155 men, 105 women and 22 boys to plantations in Barbados by March 1664. This was only just the start of the hundreds of trades of enslaved people which would take place.

Why is maritime history important?

Sailing has been essential to the advancement of civilisation throughout history since it gives people more mobility than land travel for purposes like trade, transportation, and conflict, as well as the ability to fish.

What type of goods did Jersey merchants exchange for cod-fish?

In addition to exporting codfish to Jersey, traders in cod fish also traded plantation products like sugar, molasses, rum, cotton, coffee, and tobacco to markets across America, Europe, and the United Kingdom (including Jersey). Later, these products were also traded to Brazil. In that framework, Jersey benefited from the wealth generated by the British Empire, which was built on a capitalist model of an economy centred around slavery.

What was the involvement of Jersey Jersey seamen play in the transatlantic carrying trade and the Canadian cod fisheries?

It WAS uncertain when the first Europeans arrived in Canada, but it is believed that fishermen were drawn to the north of the continent around 1497 by Italian explorer John Cabot’s accounts of “new found landes” and a sea teeming with fish. Around 1600, English fishing captains continued to record cod shoals.

Beginning in the early 16th century, Basque fisherman started visiting the area to fish, and by the year 1580, some 10,000 European fishermen were crossing the Atlantic to catch for cod.

Among them were the fishermen from Channel Islands, who by the 1750s had established profitable trade lines connecting Europe, America, and Canada. They also established facilities on the Gaspé Coast, where they could prepare and salt cod.

Which ports did Jersey ships sail to and trade with?

• Trade in Roman times

During the Roman period there was an established trade route between Alet (St Servan) and Hengistbury Head in Dorset. Guernsey was the favoured stop off point, because of the natural deep water harbour at St Peter Port, although these boats undoubtedly called in to Jersey as well. The Roman cargo boat recently raised from St Peter Port Harbour provides information on the type of vessel used on this route.

Ships became larger during the 12th century and ports began to take on a greater importance. The earliest harbours in the island were the natural havens which provided shelter from the worst of the winds and a sandy bottom on which a vessel could ground with damaging its keel. Areas such as Havre des Pas, St Brelade, St Aubin and La Rocque were used. There is mention of a Spanish ship taking on a cargo of wheat “in the harbour of St Obin”.

• 17th century harbours

A concerted effort to build harbours did not take off until the late 17th century, when work began on building a pier on the islet on which St Aubin’s fort stands. During the 18th century St Aubin’s harbour proper was constructed and work began on developing St Helier as a port, although the capital had to wait until the 19th century before it really began to develop as a port. Early 19th century, It was during the early 19th century that stone piers were built at La Rocque, Bouley Bay, Rozel and Gorey, to accommodate the oyster boats. The harbour at Gorey also took passenger traffic from Normandy.

• The mailboats

At this time the harbour of St Helier was concentrated around La Folie in The English and French harbours. At low water there was a landing stage at La Collette, to which passengers were ferried in small boats and picked up by waiting carriages and horse drawn omnibuses. With the building of the Victoria and Albert Piers in the 1840s and 1850s, passengers could arrive in a little more comfort, although the state of the tide still played an important role.

To what extend, has the island of Jersey benefitted from its constitutional relationship with Britain and the legacies of colonialism based on a slave plantation economy during the first Industrial Revolution (1760-1840)?

Jersey Island has greatly profited from its constitutional ties with Britain and the results of colonialism, especially in the period of the first Industrial Revolution (1760-1840). This partnership resulted in a stable political environment that encouraged economic growth, enabling the island to shift from a successful agricultural economy to a varied financial services and tourism industry. Merchants from Jersey participated in transatlantic trade, making money from products made by slaves like sugar and rum from the Caribbean, leading to increased local investments and better quality of life. Moreover, the colonial ties promoted cultural interactions and aided in the expansion of population, leading to a more diverse demographic on the island. Investment sourced from colonial riches continued to enhance the financial services industry in Jersey, turning it into a hub for banking and tax evasion. The connections made in history resulted in advancements in social infrastructure like education and healthcare.

What was the involvement of Jersey mariners in the Canadian cod-fisheries and the Transatlantic carrying trade?

Jersey mariners played a crucial role in the Canadian cod fisheries and the Transatlantic carrying trade during the 17th and 18th centuries. They actively engaged in cod fishing along the coasts of Newfoundland and Nova Scotia, utilizing various techniques and establishing seasonal camps to process fish for transport back to Europe, which significantly boosted Jersey’s economy.

Additionally, their strategic location in the English Channel allowed them to operate a fleet of merchant vessels that facilitated trade between Europe and the Americas, dealing in goods such as rum, sugar, and tobacco. This involvement not only enhanced their economic prospects but also fostered the development of a merchant class on the island, reflecting the broader maritime and economic dynamics of the Atlantic world during this period.

Which ports did Jersey ships sail to and trade with?

Jersey ships, benefiting from their strategic position in the English Channel, engaged in trade with a variety of important ports during the 17th and 18th centuries. They sailed to Newfoundland and Nova Scotia, which were primary destinations for their cod fishing operations, and frequently visited English ports such as London, Portsmouth, and Dover for additional trade opportunities. Jersey merchants also established connections with French ports like Saint-Malo and Rochelle, facilitating goods exchange due to historical ties with France. Additionally, they traded with Spanish ports, obtaining items such as wine, and were active in the Caribbean, linking to the lucrative sugar and rum trade. Their routes also extended to American colonies, including significant trading hubs like Boston and New York. This extensive network of trade contributed to a thriving maritime economy for Jersey, strengthening commercial ties across the Atlantic.

What type of goods did Jersey merchants exchange for cod-fish?

Jersey merchants engaged in various trade transactions when exchanging goods for codfish during the 17th and 18th centuries, particularly in the context of the transatlantic fishing industry. Common items exchanged for cod included grain and flour, as merchants often brought back staples like wheat and rye from North America to meet local demand. Salt was another critical commodity, essential for preserving fish, and was frequently sourced from different regions. Additionally, liquor such as wine from France and rum from the Caribbean was highly sought after and often traded. The exchange also included cloth and textiles imported from England or other parts of Europe, fishing gear and equipment like nets and barrels, and sometimes livestock such as sheep and pigs, which served as both food sources and valuable commodities. Furthermore, Jersey merchants traded local agricultural products and manufactured items, enhancing their market appeal both locally and abroad. This diverse exchange system not only sustained the fishing economy in Jersey but also fostered broader economic connections across the Atlantic.

To what extend, has the island of Jersey benefitted from its constitutional relationship with Britain and the legacies of colonialism based on a slave plantation economy during the first Industrial Revolution (1760-1840)?

The island of Jersey has significantly benefited from its constitutional relationship with Britain and the legacies of colonialism, particularly during the first Industrial Revolution (1760-1840). This relationship provided political stability that fostered economic development, allowing the island to transition from a thriving agricultural economy to a diversified financial services and tourism sector. Jersey merchants engaged in transatlantic trade, profiting from goods produced by slave labor, such as sugar and rum from the Caribbean, which contributed to local investments and improved living standards. Additionally, the colonial connections enhanced cultural exchanges and facilitated population growth, enriching the island’s demographic diversity. Investment from colonial wealth further developed Jersey’s financial services sector, transforming it into a tax haven and banking center. The historical ties established during this period led to improvements in social infrastructure, including education and healthcare. However, while Jersey’s benefits are notable, they raise important ethical considerations regarding the wealth derived from colonial exploitation, informing contemporary discussions about inequality and the enduring impact of colonial legacies on modern society.

Task 2- A Short History Of The Development Of St Helier Harbour

Early Beginnings

St. Helier, the capital of Jersey, has a rich maritime history that dates back to its earliest settlement. The natural harbor at St. Helier was recognized for its strategic importance soon after the island’s occupation by the Normans in the 10th century. However, it wasn’t until the 17th century that significant port developments began.

The French and English Harbours

In 1700, the French and English Harbours were constructed, providing the first major infrastructure for marine activities. These two harbors, which were highlighted in early maps and illustrations, are among the oldest structures dedicated to maritime use on the island. They served as the main port for Jersey’s larger vessels for over a century, facilitating trade and maritime commerce between Jersey and the mainland.

Expansion in the 18th Century

As maritime trade grew, the limitations of the existing harbors became apparent. To accommodate increasing maritime activity, construction of the North Pier commenced in 1790. This development was crucial for enhancing the harbor’s capacity and protecting vessels from rough seas. The North Pier would take over three decades to complete, finally finishing in 1821.

19th and Early 20th Century Developments

The 19th century saw further improvements to St. Helier Harbour, including the construction of additional piers, quays, and the implementation of modern shipping facilities. The harbor became an essential hub for trade, tourism, and passenger transport, connecting Jersey to other ports in the Channel Islands and mainland Europe.

The Second World War

During World War II, Jersey was occupied by German forces, which led to significant changes in the harbor’s operations and infrastructure. Post-war reconstruction focused on repairing and modernizing the docks to support the growing post-war economy.

Modern Era

In the latter half of the 20th century and into the 21st century, St. Helier Harbour has undergone continuous modernization. Upgrades include the establishment of new ferry terminals, improved docking facilities for cruise ships, and enhanced recreational areas for leisure activities. Today, St. Helier Harbour serves as a vital link for both commercial shipping and tourism, making it a key asset for Jersey’s economy.

Fixing the shadows

Photography transforms what we describe and turns it into a still image with a story behind it. Photographs leave so many questions (who, what, why) this causes the onlookers of an image questioning themselves about the image they can see. Photography is so unique that it can reveal secrets yet hide so much at the same time, there is always a story to be told of what’s beyond the frame and the Strangers beyond the picture. Control of transformation. The exciting thing about photography is that there is always a different story behind every image, and there is always more to be told then what the eye can see.

Camera Obscura

A camera obscura is almost natural photography, and is twice as natural as normal modern day photography which was first invented in 1839. It is where a room is made completely dark by a black plastic and taped up to cover any means of natural lighting and then holes are cut into it to create that light source, over time that hole will continue letting in light and eventually create an upside down image of what’s going on outside and create that in the dark room. its an optical phenomenon.

Camera Obscuras are very easy to do but also very technical at the same time as they capture deep, primitive meanings. Camera Obscuras were discovered as far back as 400bc, It is known that they were not man made but in fact were natural and only discovered by humans. Since discovering camera obscuras they are known to have been used for over a thousand years. The oldest camera Obscura is located in the Dumfries museum.

Here is an image to show the evolution of the camera:

Examples of camera obscuras:

Nicephore Niepce

Joseph Nicéphore Niepce was a French inventor and one of the earliest pioneers of photography. Niepce developed heliography, a technique he used to create the world’s oldest surviving products of a photographic process.

In 1807 Niépce and his brother Claude invented an internal-combustion engine, which they called the Pyréolophore, explaining that the word was derived from a combination of the Greek words for “fire,” “wind,” and “I produce.” Working on a piston-and-cylinder system similar to 20th-century gasoline-powered engines, the Pyréolophore initially used lycopodium powder for fuel, and Niepce claimed to have used it to power a boat.Niepce lacked in artistic ability so used Camera Obscura as a drawing aid, in which he later used to create the process ‘heliography’. He created this process in 1822 and used it to capture the World’s very first permanent photograph. This photograph was of Pope Pius VII, however, it was later destroyed after Niepce attempted to make prints from it. In 1816, Niepce would send letters to his sister-in-law containing small images on paper coated with silver chloride, however, they were negatives and when they were exposed to light for viewing they would go dark all over. Niepce then explored other substances that were affected by light and became intrigued by how bitumen coating would become less soluble after being left exposed to light. This went on to his creation of the heliograph where he would dissolve bitumen in lavender oil and use it to coat either a lithographic stone, a sheet of metal or a sheet of glass and leave it to dry. 

Nicephore Niepce First official camera obscura

Here is his first ever camera Obscura which he had created back in 1820

Louis Daguerre

Daguerreotype

Henry Fox Talbot

Richard Maddox

George Eastman

Kodak (brownie)

Film/Print photography

Digital Print