Photography: A Cultural History

Providing a new perspective on many of the old stories in the history of photography Mary Warner Mariens book is a provocative and informative read. She shows how the medium developed in various historical economic political and cultural settings worldwide and discusses the many uses to which photography has been put-from art to vernacular documentary to photojournalism and science to advertising. Incorporating new research not covered in any other survey Marien thoughtfully explores ideas generated by and about photography in each period and examines photographys key role in contemporary art and todays increasing use of digital photography. With a panoply of arresting images by famous photographers such as Alfred Stieglitz Edward Steichen August Sander and Margaret Bourke-White-as well as many unusual and seldom-seen pictures-the book is as enticing to look at as its original ideas are stimulating to consider.