Fake Images: How Heinrich Hoffmann Staged Hitler's Image for Propaganda
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How Images Make History: A Critical Look at NS Photopropaganda
Historical photographs continue to shape our image of Adolf Hitler today. The online lecture Fake Images. Hitler's Personal Photographer Heinrich Hoffmann and Nazi Photopropaganda will show on Monday, November 16, 2026, how political imagery was staged, manipulated, and widely disseminated.
Staged Images, Targeted Effects
At the center is Heinrich Hoffmann, who worked as Hitler's personal photographer and close confidant since the 1920s. Together they developed various image types of the dictator: the seemingly caring people's chancellor as well as the martial field commander. The lecture makes visible how photography was used in National Socialism for political staging and emotional targeting of audiences.
Photography as a Tool of Propaganda
Dr. Sebastian Peters expertly places Hoffmann's work within the history of Nazi propaganda. The research associate and curator of the Obersalzberg documentation at the Munich-Berlin Institute for Contemporary History researches propaganda in National Socialism. In 2025, he published a dissertation on Heinrich Hoffmann.
The evening takes a behind-the-scenes look at seemingly authentic recordings: What perspectives created closeness? How were heroic poses created? In what ways were images edited and disseminated through media? The event combines historical context with a careful look at visual manipulation.
Why the Topic Remains Relevant Today
The event also questions how propagandistic image patterns continue to resonate and what tricks of photopropaganda have persisted to the present day. Thus, the lecture not only provides historical facts but also guidance for critical engagement with images, media, and political communication.
Online Event of the Series Politics Online
The lecture is part of the series Politics Online of the vhs Traunreut. Participation takes place digitally via Zoom within the vhs.cloud. An internet-capable device as well as speakers or headphones are required. Access data will be sent via email after registration.
Conclusion: Learning to See History
Visitors can expect an informed, focused evening about the power of images, political staging, and historical responsibility. Those who want to understand how photography contributes to the construction of political reality will experience an informative event with high relevance. Registration is required.
Official Channels of Fake Images:
- Instagram: no official profile found
- Facebook: no official profile found
- YouTube: no official profile found
- TikTok: no official profile found
