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Sarah Meister
and
Lucy Gallun
Taking, sharing, and viewing photographs has become second nature for many of us. This course aims to address the gap between seeing and truly understanding photographs by introducing a diversity of ideas, approaches, and technologies that inform their making. You’ll explore the meaning of pictures and reconsider photography’s role in our visual culture.
Read more
Taking, sharing, and viewing photographs has become second nature for many of us. This course aims to address the gap between seeing and truly understanding photographs by introducing a diversity of ideas, approaches, and technologies that inform their making. You’ll explore the meaning of pictures and reconsider photography’s role in our visual culture.
Read more
Taking, sharing, and viewing photographs has become second nature for many of us. This course aims to address the gap between seeing and truly understanding photographs by introducing a diversity of ideas, approaches, and technologies that inform their making. You’ll explore the meaning of pictures and reconsider photography’s role in our visual culture.
Look closely at 100 photographs from MoMA’s collection, going behind the scenes of the Museum and into artists’ studios through videos and audio interviews. Gain new perspectives on the ways photography has been used throughout the medium’s history: as a means of artistic expression, a tool for science and exploration, an instrument of documentation, a way to tell stories and record histories, and a mode of communication and critique.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/5jpyee/seeing
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What's inside
Syllabus
Introduction to Seeing Through Photographs
One Subject, Many Perspectives
Documents and the Documentary
Read more
Syllabus
Introduction to Seeing Through Photographs
One Subject, Many Perspectives
Documents and the Documentary
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Develops critical analysis and technical understanding of a wide range of photographic images
Suitable for learners new to visual arts and photography or those wishing to explore this topic in more depth
Enhances understanding and interest in photography as an art form and cultural phenomenon
Instructors are both experts in their fields and are known for their contributions to photography
Offers a comprehensive look at the evolution and impact of photography, from its early days to the present
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Reviews summary
Seeing photography through a new lens
According to learners, "Seeing Through Photographs" offers a highly enriching and eye-opening experience, significantly changing how they view and understand images. Many found the selection of photographs from MoMA's collection to be a particular highlight, serving as excellent examples for discussion. Reviewers frequently praised the insightful lectures and clear explanations of complex ideas, making the material accessible and thought-provoking. While some appreciated the course's focus on theory and analysis, a few noted it is not suitable for those seeking technical or practical photography skills. Overall, students describe it as a beautifully curated and highly recommended course for anyone interested in the art and cultural impact of photography.
Explores history and theory, not practice.
"Be aware this course is about understanding photography as an art form and cultural force, not practical photo-taking skills."
"If you're looking to improve your technical photography, this isn't the course for you. It's purely theoretical."
"I appreciated the focus on the history and theory; it's exactly what I was looking for."
"This course is great for art appreciation, less so for aspiring photographers focused on technique."
Prompts deep thinking about images.
"Each week's topic was incredibly thought-provoking, leading to great discussions."
"The assignments pushed me to think critically about the images I see every day."
"This course made me pause and think about the intention and impact behind photographs."
"Engaged my mind and sparked curiosity about the visual world around us."
Instructors provide insightful commentary.
"The lectures were engaging and the instructors were excellent at explaining complex ideas in an accessible way."
"Found the commentary on each photograph and topic deeply insightful and well-presented."
"Instructors shared perspectives that really enhanced my understanding."
"The explanations were clear and easy to follow, even for someone new to art theory."
Challenges how you see photographs.
"This course fundamentally changed how I look at photographs. I now see so much more than before."
"It truly opened my eyes to the layers of meaning embedded in every image..."
"Gave me a new way of thinking about photography, moving beyond just 'liking' a picture."
"I learned to analyze photographs critically, considering historical, cultural, and artistic contexts."
Explores photography through key works.
"The selection of photographs from the MoMA collection was absolutely stunning and really brought the concepts to life."
"Loved studying the iconic images from MoMA, seeing them in context was incredibly valuable."
"The examples used throughout the course were well-chosen and helped illustrate the different ways of seeing photographs..."
"Exploring photography through MoMA's collection offered a deep dive into its history and impact."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Seeing Through Photographs with these
activities:
Review your knowledge of photography basics
Show steps
Refresh your memory on the fundamental principles of photography to strengthen your foundation before diving into the more nuanced aspects of the course.
Browse courses on
Exposure
Show steps
-
Revisit exposure settings and the exposure triangle.
-
Practice adjusting shutter speed, aperture, and ISO.
Read Susan Sontag's 'On Photography'
Show steps
Gain a deeper understanding of the meaning and impact of photography through Sontag's influential work, which explores photography's relationship to truth, memory, and the power of images.
View
Sontag on Film
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read Chapter 1: 'In Plato's Cave.'
-
Read Chapter 3: 'The Image-World'.
Join a study group with other students
Show steps
Engage with fellow students to exchange ideas, clarify concepts, and gain diverse perspectives on the course material, fostering collaboration and comprehension.
Show steps
-
Find a group of students with similar interests and schedules.
-
Establish a regular meeting time and location.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Explore the MoMA online collection
Show steps
Familiarize yourself with the Museum of Modern Art's vast photography collection to enhance your understanding of the course material and discover new perspectives on photography.
Show steps
-
Browse the online collection by artist or theme.
-
Read the descriptions and interpretations provided for each image.
Write a photo essay about a personal experience
Show steps
Apply your understanding of photography by creating a narrative through a series of images and captions, deepening your connection to the medium and its expressive potential.
Show steps
-
Choose a personal experience or event that resonates with you.
-
Take a series of photographs that capture the essence of your experience.
-
Write captions that provide context and insights into each image.
Participate in a photography contest or exhibition
Show steps
Showcase your photography skills and gain external feedback by submitting your work to a contest or exhibition, challenging yourself and potentially earning recognition for your creativity.
Show steps
-
Research photography contests or exhibitions that align with your interests.
-
Prepare and submit your strongest images for consideration.
Volunteer as a photography mentor
Show steps
Solidify your knowledge and develop leadership skills by mentoring aspiring photographers, sharing your expertise and fostering their growth within the field.
Show steps
-
Reach out to local photography organizations or community centers.
-
Offer your services as a volunteer mentor.
Review your knowledge of photography basics
Show steps
Refresh your memory on the fundamental principles of photography to strengthen your foundation before diving into the more nuanced aspects of the course.
Browse courses on
Exposure
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Revisit exposure settings and the exposure triangle.
- Practice adjusting shutter speed, aperture, and ISO.
Read Susan Sontag's 'On Photography'
Show steps
Gain a deeper understanding of the meaning and impact of photography through Sontag's influential work, which explores photography's relationship to truth, memory, and the power of images.
View
Sontag on Film
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read Chapter 1: 'In Plato's Cave.'
- Read Chapter 3: 'The Image-World'.
Join a study group with other students
Show steps
Engage with fellow students to exchange ideas, clarify concepts, and gain diverse perspectives on the course material, fostering collaboration and comprehension.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a group of students with similar interests and schedules.
- Establish a regular meeting time and location.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Explore the MoMA online collection
Show steps
Familiarize yourself with the Museum of Modern Art's vast photography collection to enhance your understanding of the course material and discover new perspectives on photography.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Browse the online collection by artist or theme.
- Read the descriptions and interpretations provided for each image.
Write a photo essay about a personal experience
Show steps
Apply your understanding of photography by creating a narrative through a series of images and captions, deepening your connection to the medium and its expressive potential.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a personal experience or event that resonates with you.
- Take a series of photographs that capture the essence of your experience.
- Write captions that provide context and insights into each image.
Participate in a photography contest or exhibition
Show steps
Showcase your photography skills and gain external feedback by submitting your work to a contest or exhibition, challenging yourself and potentially earning recognition for your creativity.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research photography contests or exhibitions that align with your interests.
- Prepare and submit your strongest images for consideration.
Volunteer as a photography mentor
Show steps
Solidify your knowledge and develop leadership skills by mentoring aspiring photographers, sharing your expertise and fostering their growth within the field.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Reach out to local photography organizations or community centers.
- Offer your services as a volunteer mentor.
Career center
Learners who complete Seeing Through Photographs will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Photo Archivist
Photo Archivist
A Photo Archivist is responsible for organizing, preserving, and cataloging photographs. They may also provide access to photographs for researchers and the public. This course may help a Photo Archivist develop a deeper understanding of the history and significance of photography, which can inform their decisions about how to care for and manage photographic collections.
Photographer
Photographer
A Photographer takes photographs for a variety of purposes, such as art, journalism, and commercial advertising. They may also work as photojournalists, documenting news events and stories. This course may help a Photographer develop a deeper understanding of the history and significance of photography, which can inform their own work.
Curator
Curator
A Curator is responsible for planning and managing exhibitions at museums, galleries, or other institutions. They may also conduct research, write articles, and give lectures. This course may help a Curator develop a deeper understanding of the history and significance of photography, which can inform their decisions about which works to acquire and display.
Visual Artist
Visual Artist
A Visual Artist creates works of art using a variety of media, such as painting, sculpture, and photography. They may also work as art directors, designers, or illustrators. This course may help a Visual Artist develop a deeper understanding of the history and significance of photography, which can inform their own work.
Museum Educator
Museum Educator
A Museum Educator develops and delivers educational programs for visitors of all ages. They may also lead tours, give lectures, and write articles. This course may help a Museum Educator gain a deeper understanding of the ways that photographs can be used to teach about history, culture, and art.
Archivist
Archivist
An Archivist collects, preserves, and makes accessible historical documents and materials. They may work in archives, libraries, or museums. This course may help an Archivist develop a deeper understanding of the history and significance of photography, which can inform their decisions about which materials to acquire and preserve.
Photo Editor
Photo Editor
A Photo Editor selects and edits photographs for publication in magazines, newspapers, and websites. They may also work with photographers to develop and execute photo shoots. This course may help a Photo Editor develop a deeper understanding of the history and significance of photography, which can inform their decisions about which photographs to publish.
Historian
Historian
A Historian researches, analyzes, and interprets the past. They may specialize in a particular period, region, or topic. This course may help a Historian develop a deeper understanding of the ways that photographs can be used to document and interpret the past.
Anthropologist
Anthropologist
An Anthropologist studies human societies and cultures. They may specialize in a particular region, culture, or topic. This course may help an Anthropologist develop a deeper understanding of the ways that photographs can be used to document and interpret different cultures.
Teacher
Teacher
A Teacher develops and delivers lesson plans for students of all ages. They may also assess student learning and provide feedback. This course may help a Teacher develop a deeper understanding of the ways that photographs can be used to teach about history, culture, and art.
Editor
Editor
An Editor reviews, edits, and revises written works, such as books, articles, and scripts. They may also work as copy editors, developmental editors, or fact-checkers. This course may help an Editor develop a deeper understanding of the ways that photographs can be used to tell stories and convey information.
Art historian
Art historian
An Art Historian researches, analyzes, and interprets art. They may specialize in a particular period, style, or medium. This course may help an Art Historian build a foundation in understanding how photographs have been used throughout history to express ideas and tell stories.
Writer
Writer
A Writer creates written works, such as novels, short stories, and articles. They may also work as journalists, copywriters, or editors. This course may help a Writer develop a deeper understanding of the ways that photographs can be used to tell stories and convey information.
Journalist
Journalist
A Journalist gathers, analyzes, and reports on news and current events. They may work for newspapers, magazines, websites, or television and radio stations. This course may help a Journalist develop a deeper understanding of the ways that photographs can be used to tell stories and convey information.
Librarian
Librarian
A Librarian helps people find and access information. They may work in libraries, schools, or other institutions. This course may help a Librarian develop a deeper understanding of the history and significance of photography, which can inform their decisions about which materials to acquire and make available to the public.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/5jpyee/seeing
Featured in The Course Notes
This course is mentioned in our blog,
The Course Notes. Read
one article that features
Seeing Through Photographs:
To read more articles from OpenCourser, visit:
OpenCourser.com/notes
Reading list
We've selected 32 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Seeing Through Photographs.
A long-standing reference used in both academic and gallery settings that provides a detailed overview of how to evaluate a photograph's elements.
An overview of foundational concepts in the study of photography that may be useful both as a reference for unfamiliar concepts and to broaden the student's theoretical understanding.
Save
This reference book provides a useful and detailed examination of design within visual images, extending the learner's ability to observe and identify formally-significant elements in photographs.
Provides a close study of the narrative construction of photographs which complements the course's examination of the ways in which photographs are used to build historical accounts.
Presents an overview of the history of photography and explores how photographs have evolved alongside technological advancements, social and cultural contexts, and philosophical interpretations. A variety of different historical photographs are analyzed in detail to provide a well-rounded understanding of photography.
A critical assessment of the ways in which National Geographic has shaped and refined the public's concept of photojournalism and world events.
Save
Introduces foundational philosophical questions regarding the nature of photography, image-making, and the relationship between the observer and the image.
A clear, critical overview of photography and its practices that may assist students in their own critical growth.
Useful reference tool that provides an overview of important concepts related to photography, from the technical to the theoretical. It offers a clear and concise explanation of the fundamentals of photography.
Save
Susan Sontag's influential and provocative essays examine the nature of photography, its role in society, and its relationship to truth and reality. Her insightful analysis and thought-provoking ideas offer valuable perspectives on the impact and significance of photography in our world.
Save
A seminal text on the theory of photography, this book explores the ways in which photographs communicate meaning.
Bruce Barnbaum captures a comprehensive view of the art of photography, guiding readers through the technical and aesthetic aspects. delves into the creative process, exploring composition, light, color, and other elements that influence the impact of a photograph.
A comprehensive reference book providing a wide-ranging overview of the history of photography.
Save
This text provides a comprehensive overview of the history of photography up through the contemporary moment.
Offers a rich exploration of the relationship between images and language. Berger examines how photographs communicate meaning, how they shape our perceptions, and how they are shaped by the social and cultural contexts in which they are produced.
Save
A personal and philosophical exploration of the role of photography in our lives.
A comprehensive overview of the history of photography, this book explores the ways in which photography has shaped our culture.
Save
A groundbreaking work of art criticism, this book challenges the way we think about images.
Save
A highly influential text that explores the ways in which we see and interpret images. Berger argues that images are not neutral representations of reality but are shaped by social and cultural forces.
A comprehensive account of the social history of photography, examining its role in shaping and reflecting social and cultural life. It explores the ways in which photography has been used to document, inform, and influence society.
Examines how images both shape and are shaped by the cultures that produce them. Mitchell explores the ways in which images can communicate, persuade, and control, and how they can be used to resist and challenge dominant ideologies.
Save
Explores the role of photography in everyday life. Olin examines how people use photographs to document their lives, express their identities, and connect with others.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of photography theory, covering a wide range of topics, including the history of photography, the nature of photographic representation, and the relationship between photography and other art forms.
A beautifully illustrated history of photography, this book provides a stunning visual overview of the medium.
A collection of essays that explore the ways in which photographs can be used as historical documents.
Save
A philosophical exploration of the nature of photography.
A study of the ways in which photography can be used to create and shape archives.
Save
A study of the ways in which photography has shaped our understanding of gender.
A collection of essays that explore the ways in which photography has been used to represent race.
Save
A collection of essays on the art of photography.
A study of the ways in which photographs communicate meaning.
A study of the ways in which the internet has changed the way we produce, consume, and share photographs.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/5jpyee/seeing
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Effort
7 weeks of study, 1-3 hours/week
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
The Museum of Modern Art
Instructors
Sarah Meister
Lucy Gallun
Language
English
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This course belongs to a
collection
called
Modern and Contemporary Art and Design. It's comprised of four courses:
- Seeing Through Photographs (viewing)
- What Is Contemporary Art?
- Modern Art & Ideas
- Fashion as Design
Featured in The Course Notes
Read
one article that features
this course,
Seeing Through Photographs
from our blog, The Course Notes:
To read more articles from OpenCourser, visit:
OpenCourser.com/notes
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