Written Analysis on Your Master Photographer's Work

photograph by Robert Parke Harrison


In order to prepare for your presentation, take some time to formally analyze a work by your master photographer. This will allow you to identify what ideas and concepts this photographer addressed in their work, and share them with the class.


Directions: In your sketchbook, write a four paragraph response on one-two pages in which you analyze a favorite photograph by your master photographer. Follow the question format below, and address the questions asked. Be specific, be thoughtful!


1) Identify each work being analyzed. Explain and describe the subject matter of the photo. Be specific and as descriptive as possible. What is the title of the work? When was it made? Any guesses as to who or what the subject matter is? Any personal connection to the photographer?


2) Identify the principles of composition that this photographer uses in this photo. How does this use of composition effect how we look at the subject? How did he/she position the subject matter in the frame? What was included in the shot? What was cropped out? What type of point-of-view did the photographer use? Why?


3) Make an interpretation about this photo. Why did this photographer print this image? What is he/she commenting on about the subject? What was the initial purpose of the photograph, (was it used in a magazine, advertisement, or for an art show?) Is it personal or public? What's the message? What might it mean metaphorically? What do you already know about this photographer's interests that give you clues as to why he/she took it?


4) Make a personal judgment about the work. In your opinion, why is this work masterful? What about this picture makes it so powerful or meaningful? How does this work compare to other pictures this photographer has made, explain similarities and differences.


Use this written response as a way to practice presenting your master photographer's work to the class...