Digital Revolution: The Impact on Photography

The Dawn of Digital: late 20th Century

The introduction of digital cameras in the 1990s signalled a huge shift in photography, where photos could be taken and viewed immediately without a darkroom or film.
The digital camera not only made photography more accessible but also transformed the nature of the art form. For some, this revolutionised functions like editing and retouching that were previously executed manually.
The first commercial digital cameras were key in sparking amateur interest and opening up photography to a wider audience.

The rise of the internet expedited the dissemination of photographs, creating the concept of viral content.
There was a significant shift in control over the reception and distribution of photographs. Before, this was in the hands of publishers and gallery owners, but now it largely belongs to the public via social media platforms.
Websites like Flickr and platforms like Instagram have created communities of amateur and professional photographers alike, making it easier to share work, seek feedback, and gain exposure.

As digital editing software like Adobe Photoshop became widely accessible, it allowed for more extensive manipulation of images than ever before, raising questions about ‘truth’ and authenticity in photography.
The use of filters and digital enhancement tools popularised by social media apps allow for on-the-go editing and stylisation of photographs.
The ease of taking and sharing photos has led to the democratisation of photography, but also discussions around over-saturation, artistic value and copyright issues.

Digital technology continues to evolve, with the rise of drone photography and 360-degree cameras that can take panoramic shots.
The digital revolution has transformed not just the technique, but also the philosophy and aesthetics of photography, leading to new forms like selfies and vlogs.
As the ease of access to photography continues, debates around authenticity, oversaturation, and the value of the printed photograph are likely to continue.