What was old is new again. With all the new developments in today’s technology, there are many apps that can be used with a smart phone to take panoramic images. Panoramic photography is not a new idea. Island photographer Otto Herbster captured island landmarks and events more than 100 years ago with his panoramic camera. The Herbster image that is the most recognizable is that of the Hotel Victory.
It is uncommon to find an original antique print of any Herbster’s work for sale. However, memorabilia collector Steven Nemec recently acquired eleven original panoramic photographs by Herbster of the I-LYA regattas at Put-in-Bay. The dates on the prints range from 1926 to 1946. The details captured on these photos are incredible and provide a spectacular glimpse into history of South Bass Island. All images courtesy of Steven Nemec.