Photo Antiquities

The Photo Antiquities Museum is not only the best collection in all of Pittsburgh for those who love the history of photography, but also for anyone that has a passion for history, art, science, illusions, and so much more. The guide is fantastic and extremely passionate about the museum’s importance and history. You’ll never find a place like this anywhere else in Pennsylvania, and probably anywhere else in the country.

Great museum! Such a unique Pittsburgh experience! Plan to be at the tour at 4:00 on Saturday and call in advance to reserve your spot!

4 stars only because it was a little difficult/unclear on how to get in touch with them, but it is operated by the same guy as Bernie’s Photo next door so I was able to schedule a tour by calling that store instead! Reservations required, it seems that tours are mostly on Saturdays (and last an hour), and it is a $10 cash only donation. He has an incredibly expansive and well curated collection that covers so many topics of early photo history, and is clearly passionate and knowledgeable about the topics the museum encompasses. If you’re a fan of history or photography this is definitely a must see place.

Bruce our tour guide was extremely knowledgeable and a great presenter. So many interesting examples of photography through the ages. We made a reservation in advance and met up at Bernie’s Photo Shop. We arrived early and had time for coffee and sweets at Prantl’s Bakery across the street which was great. I’ve been to many exhibits of historic photos and photographic equipment, including Eastman House in Rochester and this was pretty impressive!

We showed up without a reservation and the owner promptly took us up for a guided tour. We thought we were just going to walk around looking at old photos and cameras, but we got a history of photography, cameras, and video cameras. We got a history of how the developing process evolved and how some glass plates were colored by hand. This is a must for anyone who appreciates photography and history. This will also give you an appreciation for what it used to take to make a photograph.

A really remarkable little museum, if you are interested in photography it is easy to spend hours here. The owner gives tours, is warm, personable, and extremely knowledgeable. You can see the entire history of photography in this amazingly comprehensive collection.

This place is AMAZING!!! If you want to see cameras and photographs from the early 1820s to today, this place is worth the visit. This place has almost every kind of cameras and film cameras imaginable!