Behind the scenes of 'The Family of Man'

A vast project to digitise The Family of Man exhibition is currently underway in Clervaux. This initiative is part of a long-term approach aimed at ensuring the conservation, scientific documentation and transmission of this major photographic heritage, which is part of international cultural history.

The complexity and uniqueness of the exhibition require a tailored and particularly rigorous methodology. The digitisation process is therefore being carried out using two complementary approaches.

On the one hand, a large part of the works are being digitised directly on the exhibition walls in order to preserve the integrity of the historical scenography designed by Edward Steichen and to limit any unnecessary handling.

On the other hand, a targeted selection of works is temporarily removed when technical constraints require specific shooting conditions to ensure optimal reproduction accuracy.

This delicate work is being carried out in collaboration with a specialist team from Genus, a UK-based company with decades of experience in the field of cultural heritage.

Each stage of the process – installation, photography and quality control – is carried out with the utmost respect for the works, in close consultation with the CNA's conservation teams. This digitisation campaign provides an essential foundation for future projects, including academic research, publications and exhibitions, as well as for accessing and passing on The Family of Man to future generations.

Through this groundwork, The Family of Man continues to evolve over time, combining fidelity to its history with openness to contemporary digital challenges.