~ Define documentary photography ~

“No moment is most important. Any moment can be something.”
–Garry Winogrand

For me, documentary photography has always been about conveying the spirit of the times through the human condition. Historical projects such as the FSA come to mind as do photographers like W. Eugene Smith, Margaret Bourke-White and Dorothea Lange. The power of this type of image may not be noticed when they were taken, but in time their strength grows as viewers begin to learn from moments captured in time. Documentary photography strives to not only inform the viewer on social issues but also attempts to convey the emotions behind the social issues. To make the viewer feel and connect with the subject matter is it’s primary intention. To connect. Not to divide. To convey the commonality of the human spirit across social, economic, racial and cultural divides.

~ by kainazamaria on March 28, 2007.