Reading Photographs is a clear and inspiring introduction to theories of representation and visual analysis and how they can be applied to photography. Introducing the development of photography and different approaches to reading images, the book looks at elements such as identity, gaze, psychoanalysis, voyeurism and aesthetics.
Striking visual examples are used to illustrate the text and engaging case studies delve deeper into issues raised within each chapter, with brief activity points to allow the reader to apply relevant theories to their own practice.
Having held the posts of course leader on both the Visual Arts and History of Art and Visual Culture courses at the University of Gloucestershire, UK, Richard Salkeld is now senior lecturer in the university's Art and Design department, teaching undergraduate students of photography.
Chapter 1: What is a photograph?
Invention: the marriage of chemistry and optics
Time and light
Uses and application
The democratic image
A small history of photography
The camera: an evolution
Case study 1
Chapter 2: Reading the signs
Where do meanings come from?
Semiotics: the study of signs
Ideology: ideas, practices and beliefs
Case Study 2
Chapter 3: Truth and lies
The camera never lies
Representation and reality
The camera always lies
Case study 3
Chapter 4: Identity
People and portraits
Looks and gazes
The body
A note on psychoanalysis
Case study 4
Chapter 5: Big Brother is watching you
Surveillance and control
Propaganda and advertising
Public space - private lives
Case study 5
Chapter 6: Aesthetics
But is it art?
The 'painter' of modern life
The iconic image
Case study 6
Conclusion
Bibliography
Index
Working with Ethics
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