Why Old School Photographers Dislike Modern Photography
The Evolution of Photography: From Complexity to Accessibility
For those who mastered photography through traditional methods, it can be challenging to view the current generation of photographers without a degree of skepticism. The rapid advancements in technology often lead to the perception that newer photographers are less skilled or appreciative of the craft.
This article explores the historical development of photography, highlighting the significant challenges faced by early practitioners. We will examine how technological innovations, particularly in digital cameras, have democratized the art form.
A Historical Perspective on Photographic Technology
The journey of photography is marked by a continuous series of technological breakthroughs. These advancements haven't simply enhanced image quality; they've fundamentally altered who can participate in photography.
Initially, photography was a complex and expensive undertaking, reserved for those with specialized knowledge and resources. The process demanded a deep understanding of chemistry, optics, and meticulous technique.
The Democratization of Photography
Digital cameras have played a pivotal role in making photography accessible to a wider audience. This increased accessibility has, understandably, sparked debate within the photographic community.
Many professionals and dedicated enthusiasts express concern that the ease of modern photography diminishes the value of skill and artistry. But is there validity to this viewpoint?
- The cost of entry has drastically decreased.
- Instant feedback allows for rapid learning.
- Image editing software simplifies post-processing.
Uncovering Surprising Insights
A closer examination reveals some unexpected truths about the evolution of photography. While the technical barriers to entry have lowered, the potential for creative expression has simultaneously expanded.
The availability of tools and resources empowers a new generation of photographers to explore their artistic vision, regardless of their formal training. This shift doesn't necessarily equate to a decline in quality, but rather a diversification of styles and approaches.
The Perceived Simplicity of Modern Photography
Contemporary digital cameras are remarkably user-friendly. Features like automatic focus, white balance, ISO adjustment, aperture control, and shutter speed selection are standard. A simple button press initiates the entire process.
No prior knowledge of lighting is required, and the complexities of film development or photographic paper handling are eliminated. Even sophisticated cameras with interchangeable lenses offer a streamlined experience, potentially diminishing the artistic skill traditionally associated with photography.
A Historical Perspective on Technological Advancement
This sentiment regarding ease of use isn't new. It mirrors criticisms leveled against photographic technology since its early stages of development. The same dismissive attitude existed generations ago, demonstrating a recurring pattern of resistance to change.
Conversely, contemporary photographers sometimes underestimate the contributions of their predecessors. The advancements enjoyed today are built upon the foundations laid by pioneering photographers who overcame significant technical hurdles.
Consider the photograph captured in 1936 by Henri Cartier-Bresson, a prominent figure in early 20th-century photography. He was renowned for his documentary-style “street photography,” which profoundly impacted subsequent generations of artists.
A Case Study in Shifting Standards
This image was posted in 2006 to a Flickr group dedicated to critique, titled “Delete Me.” It received immediate negative feedback, with comments focusing on perceived flaws like blurriness and graininess.
Modern digital photographers, accustomed to pristine image quality, struggled to appreciate the artistic merit of a photograph exhibiting characteristics inherent to film. They applied contemporary standards to a work created under vastly different technological constraints.
This particular piece of art was sold in 2008 for $265,000. Judging it by current standards reveals a lack of understanding regarding both the technological progress that enabled modern photography and the artistry of a highly influential figure.
Our goal today is to bridge the gap between generations, fostering appreciation for both historical and contemporary photographic techniques by examining the challenges faced by photographers in the past.
Camera Obscura, Daguerreotypes, and the Origins of Photography
The camera obscura has been discussed extensively, serving as an excellent demonstration of the principles governing how modern cameras function. However, “photography” in its contemporary understanding didn’t originate with the camera obscura, though early iterations of the device can be considered a precursor to photographic techniques.
Early Photographic Images: The Heliograph
One of the earliest surviving images captured using a camera obscura was developed utilizing a pewter plate as the image receptor. Joseph Nicéphore Niépce created this initial permanent photographic image, often referred to as a Heliograph, by solidifying bitumen, or asphalt, on the pewter surface.
Bitumen undergoes a hardening process when exposed to light, resulting in a positive image after a solvent wash. While Niépce devised a complex yet ingenious method for capturing and recording light, the resulting image quality was notably poor.
The Daguerreotype: A Breakthrough in Photography
The first image arguably deserving the title “photography” was produced by Louis Daguerre, a figure distinguished as both an artist and a physicist – a combination of skills crucial for pioneering photography.
Although Daguerre wasn’t solely responsible for inventing photography, he collaborated with Niépce on a chemical process that ultimately became the “Daguerrotype,” recognized as the first practical method for creating lasting photographs.
Independent contributions to early photographic methods were also made by other inventors, such as Hércules Florence. Nevertheless, Daguerre’s method gained prominence, being acquired by the French government and released into the public domain.
Limitations and Characteristics of Daguerreotypes
Several defining characteristics of daguerreotype photography stemmed from the constraints of the medium itself. Images were formed on metal sheets using materials with limited light sensitivity.
Consequently, exceptionally long exposure times were required to produce any discernible image. This necessitated subjects remaining rigidly still, and smiling was uncommon.
Daguerreotypes were also unique in that they were not reproducible, as the image was directly imprinted onto the material’s surface. This limitation spurred the development of glass-based photographic plates and negatives, enabling the creation of image copies.
The development of negatives allowed for the printing of multiple copies, a significant advancement over the single-image nature of the daguerreotype process.
Kodak's Impact: Democratizing Photography and a Lament from Traditionalists
In the mid to late 19th century, photography demanded considerable skill and technical knowledge. Photographers of that era were required to transport substantial quantities of potentially dangerous chemicals, alongside bulky glass or metal plates, simply to capture an image.
George Eastman aimed to revolutionize this process, effectively altering photography’s landscape by removing it from the domain of those combining artistic talent with chemical expertise. This increased accessibility to a wider audience, a development met with disapproval by established professionals and purists.
The Birth of "Kodak" and Roll Film
Eastman’s initial camera model was designated with the coined term “Kodak.”
This name ultimately became the brand identity of his company, initially known as “Eastman Kodak,” and later simplified to “Kodak.” Eastman’s inventive spirit led to numerous designs for user-friendly, point-and-shoot cameras.
However, his most significant contribution was the creation of photographic film in rolls, initially utilizing paper and subsequently cellulose bases. Even as color photography emerged, these later advancements largely built upon Eastman’s foundational cellulose film model.
Driving Convenience and Accessibility
The introduction of mainstream film systems sparked market forces that continually pushed for simpler, more convenient photographic products, alongside enhancements in image quality.
Tired of carrying heavy glass plates and chemicals? A streamlined film system was developed for ease of use. Frustrated with loading cameras in darkness? Cameras and film canisters were designed for daylight loading. Disinclined to develop film independently? A laboratory service was offered for development and printing.
A Continuing Dialogue: Past vs. Present
Two centuries after the first photograph, discussions persist regarding the relative ease of modern photography compared to its historical methods.
It’s reasonable to assume that even the most dedicated historical photographers are unlikely to be currently engaged in coating and developing daguerreotype plates. Embracing newer, more advanced technologies is a logical progression.
Furthermore, those unfamiliar with older techniques should appreciate the substantial advancements made in cameras, films, and photographic processes over the past two centuries.
Image Attribution
- The Photographer by Andreas Photography, Creative Commons.
- Hyères, France, 1932 copyright the estate of Heni Cartier-Bresson, assumed fair use.
- Pinhole Camera (English) by Trassiorf, in public domain.
- All daguerreotypes assumed in public domain.
- Kodak Kodachrome 64 by Whiskeygonebad, Creative Commons.
- Daguerrotype Camera by Liudmila & Nelson, public domain.
- All other images assumed public domain or fair use.