The study of cultural techniques, or Kulturtechniken, has recently reshaped and sharpened discussions in Germany of the relationship between (media) technology and culture. The word was borrowed from a 19th century idiom referring to agricultural engineering practices that cultivated wild lands, or, to follow the etymology, turned nature into culture. The implication of a Kulturtechnik therefore is a fundamental shift created by a range of influences that results in far-reaching effects. The joining (in the name itself) of cultural and technology studies allows for multifaceted investigations of complex phenomena which simultaneously transform scholarly perceptions and designations. At this colloquium four German scholars will present their research related to techniques of the visual realm. Four JHU scholars have been asked to respond to their presentations. The audience is invited to join the discussion.