Enables readers to understand the debates in photography and learn how to apply the issues raised by critical theory to their own practical work. This book guides readers through a range of issues, including the differences between Eastern and Western art, post-modernism, sexism, and the relationship between photography and language.
If you want to understand the key debates in photography and learn how to apply the fascinating issues raised by critical theory to your own practical work, this is the book for you! This accessible book cuts through often difficult and intimidating academic language to deliver understandable, stimulating discussion and summaries of the original texts. Key works by great writers such as Sontag and Barthes are explored, along with those from other prominent critics. You are guided through a broad range of issues, including the differences between Eastern and Western art, post-modernism, sexism, the relationship between photography and language and many other crucial debates. The book is illustrated by many classic images by eminent international photographers.Each chapter is followed by stimulating assignments and activities to get you thinking critically and apply theoretical knowledge to your own practical work. A helpful glossary provides quick access to all key terms and a substantial index references key words within the original essays which are not normally indexed. A must-have aid to anyone studying critical theory, this book provides intelligently written, illuminating insights on the 21st century's dominant art form.
"Summaries of key texts are followed by thought-provoking questions and practical assignments...the texts are well chosen." - www.photoarchivenews.com
"It's perfect for those who want to understand key debates in photography." - Amateur Photographer
"Ashley la Grange has written an excellent book which navigates through the context and meaning of photography...Every chapter in this book is filled with information on one aspect or another of photography and la Grange explores each aspect with lessons and questions which help the user understand and explore their own work within this context...It is a book which benefits from group use and review and one which should be on the recommended reading lists for all students of the medium...Highly recommended." - www.kickstartnews.com
"while this volume is clearly designed to be a textbook (each chapter ends with a section called "Assignments/Discussion Points"), it makes a good introduction to theory for photographers looking to expand their understanding of their art form." - Photo Techniques, May/June 2006
