The Museum of Photography in Berlin is on Jebensstraße, near Berlin Zoo, and brings together photography exhibitions across three floors. The Helmut Newton Foundation has a permanent display of the German-Australian photographer’s work, alongside changing exhibitions and photography from the Kunstbibliothek collection. Displays range from historical images to experimental work, so there is more to see than fashion photography alone. Allow around an hour to 90 minutes, then browse the museum shop on the first floor.
The Helmut Newton Foundation
A substantial part of the museum is dedicated to Helmut Newton through the foundation named for him. Newton was a German photographer whose work appeared in Vogue and influenced fashion photography. The permanent display gives his photographs a central place in the museum, while other exhibitions broaden the view beyond his work.
Newton’s photographs include nude images, a subject that may not appeal to every visitor. The museum also presents work by other photographers, so you can explore the rest of the galleries if that display is not for you.
Changing displays and photography collections
The Kunstbibliothek’s Collection of Photography is also presented at the museum. Alongside its permanent displays, rotating exhibitions cover photography from the 19th to the 21st century and can focus on different genres, techniques or historical periods.
The galleries extend across three floors. Past displays have included photography from the Bauhaus school, with experimental images and study projects, as well as work grouped around spatial exploration. Because temporary exhibitions change, check what is showing when you plan your visit.
The museum is in a former casino in Charlottenburg and opened in 2004. Its first-floor shop is a useful final stop after the galleries.
FAQ
Where is the Museum of Photography in Berlin?
It is at Jebensstraße 2 in Charlottenburg, near Berlin Zoo.
What can you see at the Museum of Photography?
The museum has a permanent display by the Helmut Newton Foundation and changing exhibitions. The Kunstbibliothek’s Collection of Photography is also represented.
How long do you need at the Museum of Photography?
Allow about an hour to 90 minutes to see the exhibitions.
