When it comes to photography, there are different reasons why one might pick up the hobby. It could be casual, professional, or a random moment between friends. Discerning the difference between why a picture was taken and what emotions were behind the camera can leave the audience confused if the context is lacking. In this article, I will discuss the differences between photography as art, and photography as documentation.

Art Photography

As explained, sometimes an amazing photo can be taken by accident, but nevertheless it is still an amazing piece of art. Sometimes something that may generally perceived as art could have been done only as a professional courtesy. Photography as an art can be looked at as something that is unrealistic and only made to appeal to the audience or the photographer’s mind.

This can then be viewed as something that distracts people from reality, where some would rather be informed on politics and economics. Instead, they are shown pictures of cats climbing trees. This then causes the reputation of photography as a whole is brought into question.  

Documentary Photography

However, documentation photography can be viewed as a public service that the person behind the camera is committing. This side of photography can be seen as more realistic, bringing to light the true problems the world holds. Putting them on display allows the population of earth to be involved, well informed, and form their own opinion on matters that will allow them to navigate life. Head over to this article to learn more! Or this one may be more interesting to you!

Although these two points can seem very contradictory to each other, the only real reason that any picture holds meaning is how those that are introduced to the “art” perceive and react to it.

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References:

Photo of Migrant Mother: Wikipedia

Butterfly Photo: Fstoppers

Featured Image: Sean Bagshaw

Documentary Art Reference: WordPress

Documentary Art Reference: Tate