Tuesday, December 2, 2008

Using Symbols and Metaphors in our Photographs

Symbol

Dictionary - in general, something that is chosen to stand for or represent something else, especially an object to typify. EX. An oak tree is a symbol of strength.

Visually - an object, shape, or design that represents something else, often and idea or concept (page 224) EX. On page 225.

Metaphor

Dictionary - figure of speech in which one object is likened to another by speaking of it as another. EX. He was a lion in battle.

Visually - a photograph that implies comparison between unlike things, basically qualities of one thing are transferred to another. EX. Clouds are music.

All photographs are metaphors.

subject matter + formal qualities + context = content

Context
  • beliefs (culture of maker of image)
  • cultural experience of maker of image
  • type of photograph
  • what motivated maker of image
  • what is its purpose
  • the view's own experience

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