Sontag on Photography

In her book “Susan Sontag On Photography”, Susan outlines the history of photography and it’s achievements along the way. Susan interprets the emotions we express, and the importance photography plays in our lives. In her first chapter Susan compares the camera in relation to the photographer she writes, “Photographs are really experience captured, and the camera is the ideal arm in the acquisitive mood”. Susan makes a distinction between photography practiced as an art, and photography taken as a “social rite, a defense against anxiety, and a tool of power”.
Over time photography became more than just an art form, it could be used to benefit our daily lives. Photography has made a major impact on the medical world, allowing doctors to capture images during surgery or to organize their research, and help save lives. When dealing with a criminal case a picture can prove guilt or innocence in the court of law.
A photograph, Susan says, is an important tool that can be used in educating people on things that they have no way of seeing. Things like far away countries, and outer space can be viewed and studies by anyone. As Susan mentions photography is a perfect medium to transfer ideas and facts about the past.