History of the Photography Department

For over a century, the Photography Department played a vital role in supporting The Field Museum’s exhibitions, research, and documentation efforts. By capturing high-quality images of artifacts, specimens, and events, the department greatly enhanced the accessibility of the Museum’s collections to researchers, historians, publishers, and community scientists worldwide.
The department provided a wide range of photographic services to Museum staff, and all images produced by Field Museum photographers were deposited and cataloged in the Photo Archives, ensuring their permanent preservation and accessibility. From early glass plate negatives to modern digital files, photography has been an essential part of The Field Museum’s mission for more than 100 years.
Since the Museum’s founding in 1894, approximately 20 photographers have served on staff, with only four individuals holding the title of Head Photographer. The department was officially disbanded in 2020.

Head Photographers Through the Years

Charles Carpenter (1899–1947)
The Museum’s first official Head Photographer, Carpenter began his tenure in 1899 and retired in 1947. He participated in two major expeditions: one to Arizona to photograph Hopi objects, and another to St. Louis to document the Louisiana Purchase Exposition (World’s Fair) of 1904. Carpenter also photographed the Museum’s 1921 move from its original Jackson Park location—built for the World’s Columbian Exposition—to its current building.

John Bayalis (1949–1975)
Carpenter’s longtime assistant, Bayalis became Head Photographer in 1949. During his tenure, he continued the department’s work in documenting the Museum’s growing collections until his retirement in 1975.

Ron Testa (1975–1989)
Appointed Head Photographer in 1975, Testa photographed countless objects and events, and also traveled on assignments to Egypt and Bolivia. He retired in 1989.

John Weinstein (1989–2020)
Serving as the final Head Photographer, Weinstein led the department into the digital age. His work included expeditions to Kenya and Wyoming.