In August, the first censorship measures followed the unexpected German invasion of May 1940. The Verbond van Nederlandsche Journalisten (Association of Dutch Journalists) was founded on the initiative of people well-disposed towards the Germans and its membership became mandatory on 2nd May 1941. On 6th May, a ban was announced on certain photographs, including pictures of ‘the former Royal Family’ and of Jewish people. Approval was required for some photographs, such as photos of military subjects, traffic, prominent figures and political meetings. In addition, twelve categories of photographs were regarded as being undesirable.

Despite all the measures taken, there was no general ban on photography until the autumn of 1944. On 20th November of that year, Hans Albin Rauter (SS General and Police Chief) issued the following order: ‘It is forbidden to take photographs, to make films or drawings, as well as to depict in whatever way persons and objects located outside the private domain.’

This general ban notwithstanding, a great number of photographs were taken during the last five months of the Occupation. Most photographers worked on their own, driven by the urge to record history, while a few worked in a group or carried out assignments.