Topographic Photography
Definition
This term refers to photography that focuses on the detailed, systematic depiction of landscapes, particularly with an emphasis on the physical features, contours, and spatial relationships of a region. Topographic photography is often used in mapping, surveying, and documenting the natural and built environment.
History
Topographic photography emerged as a significant genre in the mid-20th century, particularly with the New Topographics movement, which sought to document the changing American landscape with a focus on the intersection of natural and human-made environments. Photographers like Robert Adams and Bernd and Hilla Becher have used topographic photography to create systematic, objective records of landscapes and industrial structures.
Notable Examples
Robert Adams
The New West, 1974
Bernd and Hilla Becher
Typologiesseries,
Key Artists & Movements
Key figures include Robert Adams, whose work The New Westdocuments the suburban expansion of the American West with a focus on the interaction between natural landscapes and human development, and Bernd and Hilla Becher, known for their Typologiesseries, which systematically documents industrial structures, highlighting their formal qualities and the impact of industrialization on the landscape.
Techniques & Materials
Techniques involve the use of large-format cameras, precise composition, and often a detached, objective perspective to create detailed records of landscapes and structures. Topographic photographers may focus on the physical features of the land, the impact of human activity, or the formal qualities of architectural and industrial forms. The genre often emphasizes clarity, detail, and a systematic approach to capturing the environment, making it a valuable tool for both artistic and documentary purposes.
2940 Portland Dr.
Oakville, Ontario, Canada L6H5W8
Khalifa Blvd, Dubai, UAE
[email protected]
