Charles Marville’s photographs, although replacing those of photographers like Édouard Baldus in the Mission Héliographique, extended beyond a sole focus on architectural structures. His finest works encapsulate the landscapes, historical buildings, alleys, streets, and squares of 19th-century Paris, offering distinct perspectives that are shaped by both conscious and subconscious constraints, defining his unique and recognizable style.
Marville’s approach seems to prioritize objectivity, with personal preferences taking a back seat. However, it’s clear that he adjusted his perspective based on the subject and content, especially when the subject couldn’t be captured from a typical “standing human” viewpoint. For instance, in his quest to photograph the spire of Notre Dame, he ascended one of the towers, positioned himself behind the spire, and captured it from an elevated angle.