Photography represents a unique visual platform independent of the traditional arts. Where the photographed image is often misunderstood as an artistic representation based solely on the existence of an image. However when one considers how the image is realized a clear and distinct difference can be drawn between photography and the traditional arts. It is photographs dependency on a recording devise most often referred to as a camera that records an existing reality and does not create a new reality that separates photography from the traditional arts, such as painting, drawing, sculpture. Where the skilled hands of the practitioner play a direct role in the physical application of materials in the creation of a new reality. While in photography when practiced in its most traditional role where the resulting image represents Narrative depiction of an existing time and place, recorded in real time, void of any human physical intervention. Where the role of the practitioner is defined as an observer, and is limited to the operation of the camera and the composition of the scene.
However Photographs Narrative classification does not mean its innate ability to record an image in its entirety, can not be transitioned to represent a more artistic version of itself. However to accomplish this the practitioner must make fundamental changes to the physicality of the existing scene. These changes should go beyond any superficial revisions that only affect the appearance of the image and have no effect on the integrity of its content. This can be accomplished with the physical introduction of original content, changing the Narrative of the image while establishing a new personal Scenario. These changes can be made in the analog world with the direct physical introduction of content. While in the digital world such changes could be made in post-production or a combination of both worlds.
While the changes made to the image have transitioned it from the Narrative depiction of an existing time and place, recorded in real time, void of any physical human involvement. Any discipline that is dependent on a recorded image or images maintains its classification under the photographic process.
written by Curtis Salonick 11/07/24
Curtis Salonick 