Many psychiatric hospitals house a treasure trove of historical pictures going back to the nineteenth century that until now have never been studied properly. Glass slides and negatives, loose paper prints, and albums allow fascinating insights into the modernization of these establishments and, at the same time, into the history of the medium. This then-new tool was used by doctors to record diagnoses as well as to show public life behind institutional walls; increasingly handy cameras also made it possible to record modest celebrations, leisure, and creative activities.