Louise Abel (photographer) facts for kids

This photo of Thora Hansson was taken by Louise Abel around 1890.

Louise Doris Sophie Pauline Abel (born Kleffel, 1841–1907) was a talented photographer. She was born in Germany but became a Norwegian photographer. From 1864, she ran a photography studio with her husband, Hans Abel. Their business was in Christiania, which is now called Oslo.

About Louise Abel

Early Life and Training

Louise was born in Goldberg, Germany, on November 5, 1841. Her father, Ludwig Gustav Kleffel, was also a photographer. Louise learned photography from him.

In 1863, a Norwegian pharmacist named Hans Abel came to Goldberg. He wanted to learn photography from Louise's father. There, Hans met Louise, who was already a skilled photographer. They fell in love and got married the next year.

Starting a Business in Norway

In 1864, Louise and Hans moved to Norway. They opened a photography studio and a shop in Christiania. This city is known as Oslo today.

Louise was in charge of the photography studio. She took pictures of people and made beautiful portraits. Hans managed the shop, selling photo chemicals and equipment. Louise also created special Christmas cards. She wanted to offer better quality cards than those imported from other countries.

Their studio was called L. Abel & Co. Louise and Hans ran the business together until 1890. Then, they sold it to Sine Kraft, who had worked there since 1882.

Pioneer Women Photographers

Louise Abel was one of many women who started early photography studios in Norway. These women were pioneers in their field. Other famous women photographers from that time include Marie Høeg in Horten and Augusta Charlotte Solberg in Lillehammer. There was also Louise Wold in Holmestrand and Hulda Marie Bentzen in Bergen.