The Photographic Society of London

Definition

The Photographic Society of London, established in 1853, was one of the first organizations in the world dedicated to the promotion and appreciation of photography as a fine art. It played a crucial role in shaping the discourse surrounding photography, advocating for its recognition alongside traditional art forms such as painting and sculpture. The society provided a platform for photographers to exhibit their work and facilitated discussions about photographic techniques and aesthetics.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Photographic Society of London was founded by a group of photographers and artists who believed in promoting photography as an artistic medium.
2. The society held its first exhibition in 1854, showcasing works that emphasized both technical skill and artistic vision.
3. It published 'The Photographic Journal,' which became an important resource for sharing knowledge about photography techniques and artistic discussions.
4. The society was instrumental in establishing standards for photographic exhibitions, influencing how photography was perceived in both artistic and public spheres.
5. Notable members included influential photographers like Julia Margaret Cameron and John Thomson, who contributed significantly to the field's development.

Review Questions

• How did the establishment of the Photographic Society of London influence the perception of photography as an art form during its early years?
  • The Photographic Society of London significantly influenced the perception of photography by providing a platform for photographers to showcase their work and by advocating for photography's recognition as a fine art. The society organized exhibitions where photographers could present their images, emphasizing creativity and technical skill. By fostering discussions on photographic techniques and aesthetics, it helped shift public and critical views to appreciate photography not merely as a scientific endeavor but as an important artistic expression.
• In what ways did the Photographic Society of London contribute to the development of photographic techniques and standards during the 19th century?
  • The Photographic Society of London played a crucial role in developing photographic techniques and standards through its publications and exhibitions. It shared knowledge via 'The Photographic Journal,' which detailed new methods and artistic approaches in photography. The society also set guidelines for exhibitions, helping to establish criteria for quality and presentation, ultimately influencing how photographers approached their work and how audiences perceived photographic art.
• Evaluate the impact of the Photographic Society of London on modern photography, considering its historical role and lasting legacy.
  • The impact of the Photographic Society of London on modern photography is profound, as it laid the groundwork for photography's acceptance as an art form. By promoting artistic practices and encouraging a community of photographers to engage with one another, the society helped shape the evolution of photographic aesthetics and techniques. Its legacy is evident in contemporary photographic organizations that continue to advocate for photography's artistic merit and in ongoing discussions about the role of photography within the broader art world.

Related terms

Calotype: An early photographic process developed by William Henry Fox Talbot that used paper coated with silver iodide to produce negative images, allowing for multiple positive prints.

Daguerreotype: A photographic process developed by Louis Daguerre that created highly detailed images on polished metal plates, recognized as one of the first successful methods of photography.

Photography as Art: The movement advocating for photography to be considered an art form, emphasizing creative expression and aesthetic value rather than mere documentation.