📸 19 August is World Photography Day.

Russia has quite a story to tell here. Karl Bulla is known as the father of Russian photojournalism, roaming the streets of St Petersburg from the 1880s and documenting everything from grand parades to ordinary passers-by. Sergey Prokudin-Gorsky pioneered colour photography, travelling from the Baltic coast to Central Asia with his special colour equipment under the patronage of Tsar Nicholas II. Alexander Rodchenko shook things up completely, using unusual angles and perspectives to turn everyday subjects into bold, striking compositions. And during the Great Patriotic War, Yevgeny Khaldei, Dmitri Baltermants and Max Alpert were on the front line, recording some of its most defining moments – images that remain etched into the national memory.

That tradition hasn't gone anywhere. Russian photographers continue to enter – and win – competitions around the world. And if you fancy exploring the country through a lens, the Russian Geographical Society runs its own The Most Beautiful Country photo contest, showcasing Russia's wildlife, landscapes and people.

🇷🇺 22 August is Russia’s National Flag Day

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The story of Russia's white-blue-red tricolour begins in the 17th century, when the country was taking its first steps towards becoming a maritime power. The flag was first associated with the reign of Tsar Aleksey Mikhailovich and the Oryol, Russia's first naval vessel. His son, Peter the Great, later shaped the design into the familiar three horizontal stripes, drawing on his fascination with the sea and European traditions.

Over the centuries, the tricolour has accompanied Russia through periods of transformation, achievement and renewal. Restored as the national flag in 1991, it remains a powerful link between generations and a enduring symbol of our country both at home and abroad – including here in London, where it proudly flies above the Russian Embassy.

Read more about the history of our flag here

📸 RIA Novosti