Purpose of Photography

Photo carried through entire editing process.

Mary Ann Doane discusses the idea of how photographic technology is about this "transformation of index into icon" in the article "Indexicality and the Concept of Medium Specificity".  As she develops this concept, she includes part of Dai Vaughan's argument.  He effectively says how "the point of photography is not that it mimics definitively the experience of seeing an object, but that its relation to that object is a necessary rather than a contingent one."  I was struck by how he so simply yet resolutely describes photography as not merely that of accurately depicting an object, but instead as that of having much more substance when understanding this relation with the components that make the photograph what it is. This article inspired me to alter the way I initially understood photography.  Anyone can snap a photograph and admire it, but a true artist sees more than the physical object in front of her.  She understands how viewers might feel drawn into the image depending on the perspective the photograph was taken at. She studies and comprehends how the figures relate to those around them and how colors impact the mood, etc. 

Upon reflecting on how my project has transpired throughout the weeks, I began to look deeper into my photograph series. I had begun with 32 photos and gradually narrowed them down to 10.  The printing process showed me how some photographs are enhanced and become quite striking in print, whereas others lose some of their previous strengths.  Finally, I chose 4 photographs to print 11x14 and to examine on a larger scale, keeping the strongest 2 that best complemented each other to show in the "Watching Exhibition" on Wednesday, October 19th.  The exhibition showed me the aspects that went into everything-printing titles, arranging orders, advertising, and writing the artist statement. 

Narrowing down and touching up the photographs allowed me to better grasp how each one conveys a slightly different feel depending on the time of day, location, and subject.  Listening and learning from the classroom technique, I actually discovered new themes and aspects in my photographs that I had not realized were there.  This process has enlightened me in better understanding the ultimate purpose of photography!