Photography

In this thought-provoking eight-part series, world-class photographers, academic experts, museum personnel, and others stress the importance of visual literacy as they range over the history and mechanics of photography. They also emphasize major concerns facing photographers today, including digital image manipulation and the commodification and decontextualization of photographs, and consumer issues such as information overload and selective perception. 8-part series, 27 minutes each.

This three-part series introduces fundamental skills and knowledge every novice photographer needs: understanding digital cameras, tips for composition and shooting, and using Photoshop for editing.

Compared to painting, the creation of a photograph seems simple, requiring little more than a lens and a shutter, a subject and a source of light. But what had to be adjusted, waited for, or provoked for all the elements to come together in the frame and produce an image that once seen is never forgotten? Almost since its invention, the camera has been used not just to capture reality but to interpret it. This 12-part series from Arte France traces the adventure of this art form from its beginnings up through the 21st century, revealing the hidden stories and trade secrets concealed in a series of photographs. 12-part series, 26 minutes each.

Snapshot: The Art of Photography is a six part series. For more information refer to the individual episodic descriptions.