May 1, 2024
3 minute read
Documentary photography is a genre of photography that seeks to document reality in an objective and unbiased manner. It is often used to raise awareness of social issues, to document historical events, or to simply capture the beauty of the world around us.
History of Documentary Photography
The origins of documentary photography can be traced back to the early days of photography itself. In the 1840s, photographers such as Louis Daguerre and Henry Fox Talbot began to use their new medium to document the world around them, including the lives of the poor and working class. In the late 19th century, photographers such as Jacob Riis and Lewis Hine used their cameras to expose the harsh realities of urban poverty and child labor.
Characteristics of Documentary Photography
Documentary photography is often characterized by its realism, objectivity, and social consciousness. Documentary photographers strive to capture the world as it is, without embellishment or manipulation. They often focus on social issues, such as poverty, inequality, and injustice. However, documentary photography can also be used to celebrate the beauty of the world around us.
Techniques of Documentary Photography
Documentary photographers use a variety of techniques to capture their subjects. These techniques include:
05wfpf|
Find a path to becoming a Documentary Photography. Learn more at:
OpenCourser.com/topic/05wfpf/documentary
Reading list
We've selected 11 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
Documentary Photography.
Written by the legendary street photographer Henri Cartier-Bresson, this book explores the concept of the 'decisive moment' in photography. It provides insights into his approach to capturing fleeting moments and the importance of composition and timing.
Presents a collection of Robert Capa's powerful war photography, capturing the horrors and heroism of World War II. It provides insights into his fearless approach and his commitment to documenting the human cost of conflict.
Showcases the contact sheets of iconic Magnum photographers, such as Henri Cartier-Bresson and Robert Capa. It offers a glimpse into the photographers' thought process, editing choices, and the stories behind some of the most famous images in documentary photography.
Traces the life and career of Diane Arbus, one of the most influential and controversial photographers of the 20th century. It explores her unique style, which often focused on unconventional subjects and challenged societal norms.
Examines the experiences of women photojournalists throughout history. It highlights their contributions to the field and explores the challenges and barriers they have faced in breaking into and succeeding in the male-dominated industry of photojournalism.
This academic book delves into the theoretical and practical aspects of documentary photography. It explores the history, ethics, and methodologies of the genre, providing a critical analysis of its role in shaping public consciousness and social change.
Investigates the ethical and practical challenges of humanitarian photography. It explores the role of photographers in documenting human suffering and the potential impact of their work on the lives of those they photograph.
While this book focuses primarily on street photography, it includes a section on documentary photography and explores the similarities between the two genres. It features interviews with contemporary street photographers and examines how they approach capturing everyday life and social issues.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/topic/05wfpf/documentary
Save
