Press vs Art Photography

Press photographs and art photographs are both tools used by the photographer in a similar way, but are used with different intentions. Photographs on both sides of the spectrum are trying to evoke thoughts, emotions, and meanings from the viewer of the photograph.

In press photographs, the photographer is forcing a certain emotion or meaning to the viewer to create a form of bias that is almost subliminal. As stated in the article “Political Photography: The Illusionists” on The Independent newspaper website, “the camera never lies – or does it?” The article mainly speaks of direct photo manipulation, but manipulation does not only exist through the use of physical means. The context in which the photo is published can also manipulate the meaning of it. Seen below is a photo of what is commonly known as “Hitler’s Famous Jig” by Craig T. Norback, which was shown as a celebration dance Hitler was performing. In fact, this was just a single frame from a series of images of Hitler performing a salute in which he lifted his leg, not a dance. This completely changes the message of the image.
In the next photograph, a picture can be seen in Time Magazine of Kim Jong Il backed by the Korean military. Everybody in the picture is wearing a standard military green outfit, but Kim is wearing an all white suit, making him stand out significantly. This shows how press photography can be used as propaganda and in such a bias way without even the use of text. This image shows Kim Jong Il as a ruler surrounded by his followers. He stands an individual on top of a mountain of soldiers willing to do as he wishes. It gives an intimidating look in to the mysterious society that is North Korea.

Compared to these two press photographs that give a very definite, predetermined meaning, the following are artistic photographs that can be interpreted in different ways.

This photograph of hands holding a flower by Richard Seah can be interpreted with different meanings in mind. One may interpret the image as a depiction of life and death. One may take an image of beauty away from the image. Another person may find a meaning completely different from either of these.

This photo by Lars Raun is of a woman in winter clothing, standing alone in a foot print heavy, windy horizon. Some may decipher this as a representation of loneliness. Some may interpret it as sadness, depression, or even independence. The point is, as an artistic photograph, it is up to the viewer to interpret the photograph in whichever way their mind decides to.

Sources:

http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/art/features/political-photography-the-illusionists-782869.html

http://www.time.com/time/photogallery/0,29307,1857430_1794847,00.html

http://www.unfreemedia.com/asia/2010/02/snapping-turtle-soup-for-dear-leaders-birthday.html

http://www.art-photograph-gallery.com/image-files/balihandbw.jpg

http://photo.net/photo-of-the-week-discussion-forum/00GLId