Some critics argue that photography is inferior to other art forms like painting, cinema, literature, and design. They look down on the reproducibility of photographic prints, contrasting it with the uniqueness of a painted canvas. They also highlight the perceived lack of economic and social success for photographers compared to movie stars. In response, photography enthusiasts assert that photography is an art form in itself and should be treated as such. In your opinion, these lines of reasoning are unproductive. They perpetuate stereotypes instead of encouraging artists to develop their own style and message.
Let’s Start With the Philosophy of Photography
The French Pictorialist Gustave Le Gray is considered to be the first to approach photography in an interdisciplinary manner to elevate it as an art form. Alfred Stiglitz and his group, Photo Succession, furthered the Pictorialism movement through publications like Camera Work. Stiglitz explored various printing techniques such as bichromate gum, albumin, and platinum printing, liberating photography from being a mere mechanical industrial process. Ansel Adams later criticized Pictorialism and founded the F64 group, which embraced the concept of Straight Photography.
The conflicts and criticisms among such influential photographers have contributed to the perception of a taboo surrounding the interplay between photography and graphic painting.
You create predominantly black and white images, taking an expressive approach that goes beyond mere faithful reproduction of the photographed places. Often, you cannot recall the names of specific mountains or rivers while developing photographs of peaks in the Dolomites or waterfalls. This may horrify fellow landscape photographers as you prioritize conveying emotions like wonder, melancholy, and strength rather than focusing on the location itself. You rarely have a definite photographic destination in mind, preferring to wander and encounter new marvels along unexplored paths. This approach is influenced by the Italian poet Giovanni Pascoli, who believed that artists should tap into their inner child or fanciullino and view the world with the same sense of wonder and astonishment. Hence, you are not a documentarian but rather an individual seeking solace and emotions in nature as an escape from everyday stress.
Over the years, you have merged Pascoli’s philosophy with your passion for both Japanese and Western cultures, particularly those associated with Romanticism. These cultural influences have shaped your photographic journey and impacted your choice of techniques.
Exploring Art Photography Through E-books
#1 Complete Digital Photography: 9th Edition
To excel in the digital photography world, consider delving into the updated edition of “Complete Digital Photography” by Ben Long. This comprehensive guide covers a wide range of topics, including camera functionality, shooting techniques, image editing, and workflow. With step-by-step tutorials and valuable tips, your skills will progressively improve.
In fact, we cannot cover all the books about the art of photography that we would like to. However, you can get acquainted with e-books on this topic yourself if you have reading apps. With the help of a good online library application, you can read novels in any quantity and on any topic. This is probably exactly what you need to gain a deeper understanding of photography philosophy and develop your craft.
#2 Learning to See: A Photographer’s Guide from Zero to Your First Paid Gigs
If you aim to enhance your photography skills and potentially pursue it as a career, let me introduce you to David Molnar, an experienced photographer who offers an invaluable guide. His ebook, “Learning to See,” presents a five-part framework to excel:
- See: Develop and bring your vision to life.
- Shoot: Master the technical aspects of your camera.
- Edit: Recreate the moment’s emotion during post-processing.
- Develop: Discover your photography niche or specialization.
- Earn: Monetize your artistic work.
#3 BetterPhoto Basics
Regardless of the camera you possess, you can immediately enhance your photography skills. In his book “BetterPhoto Basics”, Jim Miotke shares valuable tips and tricks for capturing remarkable pictures. If you’re pressed for time, simply flip to any page for an instant tip. The book covers essential topics such as the composition of stunning shots, effective use of light both indoors and outdoors, as well as photographing various subjects.
#4 The Photography Storytelling Workshop
Become a camera storyteller and capture photos that truly touch people. Inside this ebook, photographer Finn Beales unveils his five-step process—Pitch, Prepare, Shoot, Edit, and Deliver—to help you master photography in its entirety. Whether you’re a beginner or an aspiring professional, learn to create captivating stories with your DSLR camera.
#5 Read This if You Want to Take Great Photographs
If you’re one of the many photography enthusiasts, this ebook is ideal. “Read This if You Want to Take Great Photographs” caters to the new breed of photographers using DSLRs, compact systems, and bridge cameras. It doesn’t overwhelm you with technical jargon or complex diagrams; instead, it captivates you with stunning images and offers friendly advice.
Conclusion
Photography should have the same rights as any other art, but it is unfairly neglected. The reason is that anyone has access to a camera or smartphone camera. Flooding the internet with low-quality photos without a story is hurting the entire industry. On the other hand, easy access to brushes and paints caused a similar effect, which is why many authors remained unknown. Good photographs have been and will continue to be valuable, so you have nothing to worry about. Just develop your skills.