“Photography deals exquisitely with appearances, but nothing is what it appears to be.” ~Duane Michals. Do you agree or disagree with this quote? Why?
I agree with this quote. On a philosophical level, it is quite possible that nothing truly is at it appears. Everyone has different perceptions of the world. Photography in particular has made this debate a reality with the introduction of photoshop, allowing for objects or people to be removed, replaced or implanted in a different setting. Even before photoshop it was possible to create scenes and photograph them, leaving it up to the viewer to determine the reality and allowing for the artist to create their own.
“If I could tell the story in words, I wouldn't need to lug around a camera.” ~Lewis Hine
Do you agree or disagree with this quote? Why? Describe situations when photographic images reveal “the story” (as compared to words). Describe situations when words reveal “the story” (as compared to images).
I disagree with this quote primarily for the reason that photographs are not always intended to document. If a photograph is documentary it often contributes to the delivery and understanding of the story, especially when both words and images are delivered. Carefully chosen words in artfully delivered sentences have the ability to paint a picture in ones mind. A photograph can sometimes remove this sense of imagination by delivering the image instantly. Verbal traditions such as stories told around a campfire are a situation where words better reveal “the story” than images do. The setting allows the imagination to wander and the listeners to create their own images. At times, things are seen that words cannot describe. For example, an erupting volcano can be described, but to truly grasp the massive natural phenomenon, a photograph is necessary. Furthermore, an image can tell a story that allows for multiple interpretations, where as words often implant the speakers interpretation.
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