What is the nature of photography? One analogy, proposed by John Szarkowski, is that a photograph could be seen either as a mirror or as a window. In the first instance, such as with a self-portrait, it’s an expression of the photographer’s self. In the latter, such as a crime scene evidence photo, a photograph is an aperture through which we see the world quite literally.
To build on this useful analogy, I propose that some photographs may function as both a window to our environment, as well as a mirror reflecting the self. This is not a new idea; as espoused by photographer/educator Freeman Patterson, “the camera looks both ways”. The photographer’s choice of subject matter, lighting, composition, equipment, and shooting methods can be revealing.
As my photography has evolved over the decades, my approach has shifted from the purely documentary to that of personal discovery. Fittingly to this week’s topic, my image above juxtaposes windows and reflections, both literally and symbolically. The composition takes advantage of a glass curtain wall, showing both a reflection of the staircase that I’m standing on (and of the art installation that I’m standing under), as well as a view to the city as night beyond. Conceptually, I was exploring themes of isolation and dislocation from the world that I was experiencing with the onset of PTSD.
Photography can also be understood as writing with light, as the etymology of the word photograph derives from the Greek words phōto (light) and –graphos (written). A photographer who is attuned to natural light, and/or the exploitation of strobe or continuous artificial lighting, is able to better articulate their vision and as consequence create more eloquent images.
In my case, photography allows me to see the world more positively. As someone who lives with PTSD, mindful photography helps me gain a sense of control and agency over my surroundings. It provides a means of channeling emotion into cathartic visual imagery. Perhaps most importantly, photography encourages me to engage with the world and appreciate its wonder. This experience is something that I would like to study further and share with others.
Bibliography
HOAD, T. F. HoadT F. 2003. ‘Photograph’. In T. F. HOAD (ed.). The Concise Oxford Dictionary of English Etymology. Oxford University Press. Available at: https://www.oxfordreference.com/display/10.1093/acref/9780192830982.001.0001/acref-9780192830982-e-11310[accessed 5 Jun 2024].
‘Photography for the Joy of It by Freeman Patterson – Paperback – Revised Edition – 1989 – from Dave Shoots, Bookseller (SKU: 013841)’. 2024. Biblio [online]. Available at: https://ca.biblio.com/book/photography-joy-patterson-freeman/d/1523113225 [accessed 5 Jun 2024].
‘Topic 1: MIRRORS and WINDOWS: Presentation: Positions and Practice PHO710 23/24 Part-Time Study Block S3’. 2024. [online]. Available at: https://flex.falmouth.ac.uk/courses/1311/pages/topic-1-mirrors-and-windows-presentation?module_item_id=70206 [accessed 5 Jun 2024].
List of Figures
Figure 1. Scott Murphy. 2020. Alone ‘Portfolio’. 2024. Scott Murphy | Photographer [online]. Available at: https://scottmurphyphotographer.com/home/[accessed 10 Jun 2024].
Scott Murphy – Photographer 