Influence of Social and Cultural Changes on Photography – GCSE Photography CCEA Revision

Industrial Revolution and urbanisation

The Industrial Revolution had a significant impact on photography, as advances in technology made cameras more accessible and portable.
The rise of urbanisation often became the subject matter, with photographers capturing images of industrial landscapes and the harsh realities of city life.
This also saw the rise of Documentary Photography, used as a tool to highlight social conditions and instigating reform.

Wars and political movements have influenced photography in profound ways, often leading to strong and powerful images that encapsulate the mood of an era.
The Vietnam War and Civil Rights Movement for example, resulted in a surge of photojournalism, bringing the realities of these events to the wider public.
Political changes and upheaval are often reflected in the work of photographers of the time, who use their art to make social comments.

With the advent of digital technology, photography changed dramatically in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.
The introduction of digital cameras and smartphones fulfilled photography’s potential to become a universal form of communication.
The rise of social media platforms, like Instagram, reshaped the field of photography, making it more shareable and accessible than ever before.

The latter half of the 20th century saw the rise of Post-modernism in photography, a movement that challenged prevailing notions of art and authorship.
The use of photography in Conceptual Art highlighted the medium’s ability to question reality and challenge viewer perceptions.
Examining work from this period can highlight how societal changes influence the creation and interpretation of art.

Feminism and its various waves have greatly impacted photography, leading to a shift in both subject matter and perspective.
Female photographers began using their work to discuss issues such as identity, body image and gender equality.
Photography became an important medium for highlighting the lived experiences of women and advocating for social change.