Documentary Photography
Definition
This term refers to a genre of photography that aims to document real-life events, situations, or conditions, often with a focus on social issues, historical events, or the human experience, typically characterized by its objective, truthful approach to storytelling.
History
Documentary photography emerged as a powerful tool for social change in the early 20th century, particularly during the Great Depression and World War II, where photographers used their work to highlight issues such as poverty, injustice, and human rights, often working for government agencies, magazines, or independent projects.
Notable Examples
Dorothea Lange
Migrant Mother, 1936
Walker Evans
Let Us Now Praise Famous Men, 1941
Key Artists & Movements
Key figures include Dorothea Lange, whose work for the Farm Security Administration documented the struggles of rural Americans during the Depression, and Walker Evans, whose collaboration with writer James Agee produced a seminal work of documentary photography and literature.
Techniques & Materials
Techniques involve the use of black-and-white or color film or digital photography, often with a focus on candid, unposed shots, natural lighting, and careful composition to capture the reality of the subject matter, aiming to create images that are both informative and emotionally resonant.
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