Thoughts: Photography chpt 2 - Visual Culture

I would agree with the point of view that Howells makes for photography as an art form in chapter 3 of Visual Culture. By analysing a series of work made by a photographer the intent can usually be seen or worked out. It therefore follows that if an artist's intent can be ascertained then the photograph is more than just its subject matter; which seems to be the main thrust of arguments against photography as an art form. The mechanical recording and output of a subject onto paper (or digital media) is just part of the process; though this is usually focused on (naively or wilfully?) to the exclusion of all the other artistic intentions and choices that have to take place before and after the clicking of the shutter. Also, it is interesting that whenever arguments such as the element of chance or lack of control over subject are made to exclude photography, (because of lack of intent) it is 'straight' photography such as 'street' or 'documentary' that is used to bolster the argument - conveniently forgetting all about other modes of photography such as constructed. That is because to look at these other areas the argument of lack of intent would immediately fall flat.