Basic Critical Theory for Photographers

Description

'A good photograph is worth a thousand words, a bad photograph needs a thousand words.' Critical theory is an integral part of the art of photography and Ashley la Grange, critical theory specialist and photography teacher offers a broad overview bridging the gap between practical photography and critical theory encouraging criticism both on a theoretical level and a practical level. Once understood you will be able to evaluate, comment on and appreciate the work of others, and ensure you get the best out of your own work. With a clear and easy to understand approach this innovative text provides an insight into various critical theories of photography, mainly through books and essays by international experts in the field, but also through Ashley la Granges own essays and work, enabling you to start asking your own questions, challenging different theories and finding out more for yourself. Ashley la Grange does not aim to be definitive, rather he actively encourages debate and free-thinking, so that you are ready to tackle photography and constantly question it, to ensure you get the most out of this challenging art form.

Head of Photography at Rickmansworth School, UK. He is a consultant for exam boards in charge of deciding photography syllabi. He has a particular interest in demystifying critical theory.

"Summaries of key texts are followed by thought-provoking questions and practical assignments...the texts are well chosen." - www.photoarchivenews.com "It's perfect for those who want to understand key debates in photography." - Amateur Photographer "Ashley la Grange has written an excellent book which navigates through the context and meaning of photography. It covers photography from a range of cultural and historical perspectives as well as guiding the reader though a visual language which many outside the world of academic photography can only guess at...Basic Critical Theory for Photographers is one of those books which should become part of the syllabus of many of the excellent photography courses that are out there." - www.kickstartnews.com "...a good introduction to theory for photographers looking to expand their understanding of their art form." - Photo Techniques