Pictures and Culture

The myth of photographic truth makes photos and pictures so powerful. We assume that what we see actually occurred. Photos equal reality. We believe what we see and as the author stated we use photos as proof of life and circumstances. I remember in my government class in high school, my teacher held up a picture and asked us if we thought the picture was real. There was much discussion about how to tell if the picture had been altered. That was several years ago and since then technology and software has progressed to where many times, if done right, the changes are many times unnoticeable. But culturally I think that the myth is still believed and acted upon.


Another aspect of the photographic truth is the emotional component of pictures. Not only does society assume that the photo is true, but it also attaches emotion and meanings to the image. Whether it be our own photos of loved ones or professional photographs, pictures carry emotion and are able to evoke a response. Pictures are seen as credible and beliveable and that aspect gives the photographs the ability and power to create such a response.


"Practices of looking are intimately tied to ideology" (23). What society believes directs them to the photos taken, the pictures that are desired and the emotion tied to an image. Cultural choices are based on this and further the cultural beliefs and its influence. American ideology places importance on democracy and freedom. This cultural ideal directs to either accept or reject images and their connotations. This cultural ideal is perpetuated by itself. We believe this is ideal and we uphold it and spread it as part of our national pride.