How to analyse a photograph:
From previous artist studies and in-depth research on single pieces of artwork, I have found a similar way to understand and analyse photographs. To write an analytical essay about a photograph, based on interpretations, you would have to take many things into consideration:
- Firstly, you would have to research the following things: When and where the photograph was taken, and by whom, and basic knowledge on the photographer, and information on other previously taken photographs. Form an introductory paragraph stating these things.
- Secondly, you need to question why you think the photograph has been taken, taking into account all of your basic background knowledge on the photograph that you have previously researched. Come up with a basic theory, but be sure not to definitely state your theory as you cannot be fully sure about the true reason behind the capture of the photo. (Remember, use "Could be", "Perhaps", "Maybe" "The audience may" etc.)
- Thirdly, find other images to compare your current image to, and give reasons as to why this image may relate to, or helped you come up with your theory. Explain, not in too much detail, the background of this image and compare similarities between the two images, but also state differences too.
- The next step is to find alternative interpretations that other people may have and explain them, using the same method as you did for the first interpretation. Throughout the analysis though, remember to use "the audience" or "the viewer" instead of "I" or "you" or "we". This is because, as previously mentioned, you are analyzing an image on behalf of the audience or the viewer and so you must state that they may think that not you think that.
- To conclude your essay, simply state overall, in your opinion, which interpretation you agree with more and why. You may have a personal experience linked with your reasoning which you may express if you so wish.
The two videos below show you how to stat writing an essay about a photograph, analyzing it whilst also stating your own interpretation of it. The video helps you structure and put together the essay, which will help you when you are analyzing photographs on behalf of the viewer or audience. From these videos, once you have learned how to write an essay on your own interpretation, you simply have to change the "I thinks" and "I know" to "The audience may think" or "The audience may know".
The video on the left is much more brief than the video on the right, and talks about artwork, however you may find some of the information useful.
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The video on the right is mainly about writing the essay of your interpretation, which may be of more use to you, when writing your own essay.
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