During the 1840s and 50s, Portland was the largest center of photography in the state. For much of that time, the market was dominated by Samuel L. Carleton (active 1846-ca.1860) and George M. Howe (active 1850-1867)
A popular daguerreotypist, Samuel L. Carleton studied his trade in Boston before relocating to Portland in 1845. This daguerreotype of an unidentified woman was taken at Carleton's studio at 80 Middle Street.
