The Theories on Photography
- A traditional Renaissance perspective of fine art conveys a timeless image. England and the United States were introduced to fine art photography around 1890. The photographer captures a moment in time and place. Photography came to represent an intellectual progressive. Images can take on a different interpretation than the photographer's intent. LIke abstract painting, the photo takes on multiple meanings.
- During the first two decades of the 20th century, modernism produced a major shift in art. Modernism implies the disapproval of tradition in favor of radically different expression. Real, candid shots make up the majority of Modernist works. Photographers focused on exploiting disreputable industries.Photography became an important outlet for the formerly repressed social realities in America during the 1950s.
- John Berger's "Ways of Seeing" looks critically at photography in modern consumerist society. Images are an effective means of advertisement. Photography has merged with business to justify the exposure of images in this way. People are meant to see the images and believe the product will make their lives better. The viewer becomes enviable and associates the image with a glamorous lifestyle. Berger points out that they surround us, and that this is unique to modern society.
- After World War I the world gave more attention to photography and its further production for the public. As photography became an elemental component of journalism, newsworthy events were captured on camera. Photojournalism was a timely profession that adapted to the dominance of lens-based art. Photography was quick and images could be produced rapidly -- it was a speedy technology.
