Monday, 26 September 2011

DB 4 Presentation Response


Stieglitz had many different theories that changed through time. It's funny to even think that back then Photographs were considered science, not art, and cameras were machines and machines don't make art.  Back then, people did not understand what a camera was and how to properly use it. However, now days    a camera has come a long way, people are trained and educated to use one. It is truly amazing, with all the programs out there that teach photography and background history.  I agree photography is a beautiful way of expressing art.  In my opinion, people definitely make art; we express feelings and emotions through our photos all the time that reflect on us personally.   
First Stieglitz’s thought the camera was a machine, and now he thought the camera was a tool to photograph sharp objects. I understand how Stieglitz thought the camera was a tool because it seems reasonably at the time. Although, cameras have changed dramatically in state of the art technology.
In the Steerage, he finally came to the realization that photographs were the same as paintings and took a new approach. His path took him to realize that photographs looked like camera work and not brushwork.  I really enjoyed reading about how Warren explained step by step the history of Stieglitz theories. Also, I found Stieglitz photos inspiring and free.
America’s greatest photographers Minor White truly had an impact on me, because he used photography as a means to communicate his inner self to the outer world.  I myself, find it important to focus on the here and now and to communicate. Being in the Social Service Worker Program, I find it in me to really maintain a professional connection with my client.  I hope to incorporate photography in my social work program by capturing images. I believe this would be beneficial and a keepsake for myself to have.  Mark did an excellent job in explaining the impact on White’s photography.
I agree with Jennifer with Man Ray’s photos being extremely creative.  You definitely see the wonderful lights and shadows in all photos. I like the fact that his pictures didn’t focus on the picture but the main reason of the shadows and light.  
This group did a great job elaborating on important issues relating to these artists.  I really enjoyed reading this presentation.

Wednesday, 21 September 2011

Assignment 1 PART 1 - Web 2.0 Photo Journal Blog

Back in the early days portraits and photography was simply just for people who had the upper class status, the aristocracy.  In the article, Precursors of the Photographic Portrait by Gisele Freund, the importance of a portrait in the early days was to confirm their social status both to themselves and the world. It showed to others they were powerful and wealthy. The similarities between portraits in the early days of photography and portraits today are to satisfy the clientele’s needs. The needs of the clientele must always be acknowledged and satisfied.  When portraits began in 1839, it was very costly; it was only when the demand on the middle class brought the prices down.  There was a time back then when the photograph and portraits were made and done in the studios. However, in this day and age a photo can be taken anywhere.  We are fortunate to be able to have technology to take a photo at any place at anytime. It took a long time for a photograph of a self portrait to process compared to our instant technology today. It allows you to have an instant picture in a matter of seconds. The difference between the portraits in the early days was only for status, whereas now photographs are taken for keepsakes, memories, vacations, and paparazzi. 
 I learned in Excerpt from A History of Photography by Lemagny and Rouille that there were two very different ways practiced during the 1850’s. There were two methods of photography.  One method was taken in the studio portrait, and the second photography  method was taken for outdoor work. 
The photographer was unknown. Monsieur de Silhouette was not the creator of the cutouts. He is remembered by his own personal style.  The word silhouette means figures seen in shadowed profile which is still taught and practiced in today’s society.
Technology has come a long way from the 1800’s. It has been advanced in many ways such as the processing speed of development, colour and size.  Photographs are chosen over portraits because it is more economical and quicker way to receive photos.  Technology has given us instant gratification. It allows us to explore facebook, twitter, and my space.  I find it amazing how much technology has changed over the years and will continue to change.
                                             A Photographer's set  in the 1800's.
                                                                           A Portrait from the 1800's.
                                                     A Photograph from today's technology

Saturday, 17 September 2011

Photography- Shooting the Truth

Hello Everyone,

My name is Christine Tropea, and I am 19 years old. I am currently in  Second Year Social Work at George Brown College. I am extremely excited to learn about photography-shooting the truth and how it will impact my thoughts pertaining to the social work field. I made this blog for my photography elective. I look forward to blogging with you all. Take care