A city in a photo; An Analysis of Street Photography's Evolution and Promotion from the Perspective of Meaning and Technology

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Master's Graduate, Department of Architecture, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, University of Art, Tehran, Iran.

2 PhD Student, Department of Architecture, Faculty of Art and Architecture, University of Science and Culture, Tehran, Iran.

3 Assistant Professor, Department of Architecture, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

This paper explores fundamental propositions regarding photography as an art form and its interplay with urban design, focusing specifically on the dynamic realm of street photography. The aim of this research is to investigate the intricate connections between art, culture, technology, and urban development that have contributed to the evolution of street photography.
The study delves into the key factors that have propelled street photography forward within the realms of architecture and urban design. Central to this investigation is the exploration of the intrinsic and environmental elements that have influenced the growth and vitality of street photography. This includes examining how advancements in tools, changes in communication environments, and the evolving contexts of subjects have shaped the ability of street photography to convey complex concepts through visual imagery.
This qualitative research adopts a foundational approach, employing content analysis of scholarly sources to achieve its objectives. The interpretation of textual data involves analyzing images and fostering a discourse process grounded in the perspectives of stakeholders in the field, supported by scholarly interpretation.
The findings suggest that while photography has moved beyond traditional darkrooms, technological advancements and the rise of social media platforms have significantly enhanced its capacity to share ideas and messages more efficiently and broadly. Nonetheless, environmental themes in street photography remain closely tied to spatial settings, community interactions, the lived experiences of artists, and the environmental designs of architecture and urban spaces.
Throughout the twentieth century, street photographers captured the transformations brought about by industrialization, social issues, and literary movements through their depiction of urban environments and societal dynamics. Today, increased access to open urban spaces, coupled with advancements in photographic technology and amplified through social media, has led to a notable proliferation of impactful works. However, there has been a reduction in the visibility of unique perspectives and the recurrence of singular ideologies within the realm of photography.
In conclusion, this research underscores the enduring relevance of street photography as a medium that not only reflects urban realities but also evolves in tandem with technological and cultural advancements. By understanding the complex interplay between artistry, urban dynamics, and technological innovation, we gain insights into how street photography continues to shape and be shaped by the environments it captures.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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History

  • Receive Date: 07 March 2024
  • Revise Date: 26 June 2024
  • Accept Date: 03 July 2024

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