Documentary photography tries to capture social and political realities and often prides itself on its unmediated and direct response to reality. Nevertheless, these photographic recordings follow their own media rules and have to fictionalize data in order to bestow them with meaning.
Important representatives of this genre have developed signature styles of formulating visual statements and of expressing their viewpoints.
In the course, students will be familiarized with different documentary approaches in the history of photography and recent photographic production. They are provided with reading material which reflects upon the documentarist´s claim to authenticity and the special blend of fact and fiction characteristic of any documentary narrative.
Through the presentation of famous documentary imagery and discussions addressing the ambiguities at the heart of this genre, students will get inspiration for their own photo project. For their projects, they are encouraged to bring their multicultural backgrounds into play and let these cultural differences inform their work. The question will be who responds in which way to the Strobl experience. The photo project will also entail a written component that provides the conceptual undertaking of the project and is designed to result in an exhibition.
No prior background in photography or cultural studies is necessary. Students with a strong interest in visuals, their aesthetic qualities, and their analytic appeal will find this course stimulating.
Requirements: Attendance and participation (20% of the grade), oral exam on theoretical input (40% of the grade), photo project with a written introduction (40% of the grade).
