Major Historic Photographic Movements
Major Historic Photographic Movements
Pictorialism
- Pictorialism emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries striving to elevate photography to an art form.
- Pictorialists manipulated their photographs in the dark room using techniques like soft focus, texture screens and handwork on negatives to make them more painterly.
- Key figures include Peter Henry Emerson, Julia Margaret Cameron, and the Linked Ring group.
Straight Photography
- In contrast to Pictorialism, Straight Photography focused on the medium’s ability to precisely depict reality.
- Straight photographers strove for sharpness, high contrast, and precise exposure, avoiding manipulation in the darkroom.
- This movement was promoted by Group f/64, which included famous photographers such as Ansel Adams and Edward Weston.
Street Photography
- Originating in the early 20th century, Street Photography is all about capturing the human condition within public places.
- Street Photographers often work in candid, unposed situations to capture life as it happens.
- Henri Cartier-Bresson, Robert Doisneau, and Robert Frank are famed for their street photography.
Documentary Photography
- Documentary Photography emerged in the 1930s during the Great Depression, aiming to promote social change by revealing the truth about living conditions.
- Works in this genre are often stark, capturing poignant moments and narratives in society.
- Dorothea Lange and Walker Evans were formative figures in this movement.
Surrealist Photography
- Drawing on the wider Surrealist art movement of the early 20th century, Surrealist Photography explores the irrational and subconscious mind.
- Surrealist photographers often use techniques like double exposures, collage, and photomontage to challenge reality.
- Key figures include Man Ray, Maurice Tabard, and Dora Maar.
Modernism in Photography
- Occurring from the 1920s to 1950s, Modernism in photography champions experimental techniques and abstract forms.
- Modernist photographers often emphasise the formal aspects of composition: shape, line, form, and texture.
- Paul Strand, Edward Weston, and Imogen Cunningham are key figures in this movement.