Critical Study Ideas

As I am hoping to go into the area of documentary photography and photojournalism, I would like to base my Critical Study on these specialisms. After in-depth research into photojournalism, I have decided to discuss the decline of the photo essay in photography and this effect on photojournalists.

Artist research:
W. Eugene Smith - undertook a photojournalism project called 'Country Doctor'. This project established Smith as a master of the unique young art form of the photo essay and solidified his stature as one of the most dedicated and influential photojournalists of the 20th Century.

 

 

Grace Robertson - A Day in the Life project called 'Mother's Day Off' depicts a group of woman from South London enjoying a day-trip to the coast. It was one of a series of articles in which 'Picture Post' looked at the ways in which working-class people spent their free time during the summer months. On a rare day off the women are enjoying a drink at a local bar before departing for Margate. This has clearly sparked off the curiosity of the children playing outside.

Martin Parr - 'No Worries' project for FotoFreo, Parr photographed three major port cities in Western Australia; Fremantle, Broome and Port Hedland. Each town was a unique setting for a photographer famed for his photographs of British seaside culture and his style of photography, using intimate shots, saturated colours and flash photography, helped to create an invaluable collection of images.

Points to consider:

·      The history of photo essays and the arise of photojournalism

·      Current technology and it’s effects on photo essays; people are desensitized to poignant images, people may not value this type of photography, anyone can upload their own images to the internet

·      How many photo magazines are in circulation nowadays compared to in the past

·      Fashion magazines such as Marie Claire and Elle use photo essays to sell clothing and accessories – this is a different way that photo essays are used and is less meaningful

·      Why has there been a decline, what has contributed to this?

·      Do people care less about current issues in society?