ART 127 history of photography Powerpoint
- 1. History of Photography The Use of Photography in Propaganda: A Historical and Contemporary Analysis
- 2. INTRODUCTION Thesis: Photography’s dual potential to reveal truths and manipulate realities has made it a cornerstone of propaganda Photography’s unique ability to capture a moment in time can influence how we perceive reality, even when it's used to distort or manipulate information
- 3. Defining Propaganda and Photography's Role What is Propaganda? - Strategic dissemination of biased information to influence public perception. - Seen as authentic and credible. - Combines immediacy with visual storytelling. The London Opinion published poster: “Britons: Lord Kitchener Wants You. Join Your Country's Army! God save the King.” Modern reproduction from IWM
- 4. Flagg, James Montgomery, 1877- 1960
- 5. Edward Curtis’s The Vanishing Race (1904) Early Photographic Propaganda
- 6. Photography and War - Iconic imagery symbolizing victory and unity - The image’s emotional appeal made it perfect for propaganda - Used for: Recruitment, war bonds, and national morale Joe Rosenthal’s Raising the Flag on Iwo Jima (1945)
- 7. Social Photography as Counter-Propaganda Photograph by Lewis Hine - Revealing child labor conditions A form of Counter-propaganda: Using truth to inspire Hine’s approach ties to his essay Social Photography, where he argued that images can educate and drive social change, challenging us to act on what we see. Addie Card, Spinner in a Cotton Mill (1910), Lewis Hine
- 8. Photography and Pain - Exposing systemic injustice - Such images bring systemic injustices to light - Role: Evoke empathy and catalyze change. - Also gather support for the Civil Rights Movement Charles Moore’s Selma Protest and Police Violence (1965)
- 9. Contemporary Digital Propaganda Though entirely fabricated, it went viral, illustrating how easily misinformation spreads in the digital era Modern propaganda leverages the speed of digital platforms - To mislead and manipulate public opinion Fake Pope Francis endorsement
- 10. Theoretical Frameworks and Ethical Concerns - He defined punctum as small, unique detail in a photograph that has a personal significance for the viewer - understanding the context and intent behind images is critical Roland Barthes
- 11. Conclusion - Photography shapes public perception by manipulating emotions and realities - Critical analysis and media literacy are essential to navigate today’s visual world
- 12. THANK YOU
Editor's Notes
- #6: Today, I’ll be presenting my paper on The Use of Photography in Propaganda: A Historical and Contemporary Analysis. Propaganda is a powerful tool used by governments, political movements, and social forces to influence public opinion. Photography has played a central role in shaping these narratives. Photography’s unique ability to capture a moment in time can influence how we perceive reality, even when it's used to distort or manipulate information This iconic photograph of Marines raising the American flag at Iwo Jima became a symbol of American resilience during World War II. Notice how the upward angle makes the flag seem to soar toward the sky—this visually reinforces the idea of victory and triumph. The Marines’ unity in this action represents the collective strength of the American people during the war. The photograph was not just a moment captured in time; it was actively used in war bond campaigns and national morale-boosting efforts. It became a rallying cry, showing how photography can go beyond documentation and influence national sentiment.
- #8: Today, I’ll be presenting my paper on The Use of Photography in Propaganda: A Historical and Contemporary Analysis. Propaganda is a powerful tool used by governments, political movements, and social forces to influence public opinion. Photography has played a central role in shaping these narratives. Photography’s unique ability to capture a moment in time can influence how we perceive reality, even when it's used to distort or manipulate information This iconic photograph of Marines raising the American flag at Iwo Jima became a symbol of American resilience during World War II. Notice how the upward angle makes the flag seem to soar toward the sky—this visually reinforces the idea of victory and triumph. The Marines’ unity in this action represents the collective strength of the American people during the war. The photograph was not just a moment captured in time; it was actively used in war bond campaigns and national morale-boosting efforts. It became a rallying cry, showing how photography can go beyond documentation and influence national sentiment.