David Octavius Hill
Scottish, 1802–1870
BiographyDavid Octavius Hill was a leading figure in both Edinburgh society and artistic circles. He was the secretary of the Society of Artists and of its successor, the Royal Scottish Academy, until his death. Active as a painter, Hill created historical subjects, landscapes, and portraits. He is best known, however, for his partnership with Robert Adamson. Hill's vision as a painter was influenced by his experience with photography; similarly, his work as an artist made his calotypes into compelling pictures.