Berger: Ways of seeing (Chapter 1) (Annotation)

 For week 2 core reading, including 'Ways of seeing' by Berger (1972), was done.The first thing that i was interested in is 'The relation between what we see and what we know is never settled' (p.7). Therefore  'The way we see things is affected by what we know or what we believe' (p. 8). In other words, understanding of each image depends on cultural background and associations of viewers. Because of this, each time photographer makes photographs target audience should be selected.

Then, 'An image is a sign which has been recreated or reproduced. It is an appearance, or set of appearances, which has been detached from the place and time in which it first made its appearance and preserved - for a few moments or a few centuries. Every image embodies a way of seeing. Even a photograph. Every time we look at a photograph, we are aware, however slightly, of the photographer selecting that sight from an infinity of other possible sights. The photographer's way of seeing is reflected in his choice of subjects' (p. 9-10). Hence, as a photographer i need realize that i am the key person who selects objects (focus of interest) and builds composition in a way, where spectators can see the meaning that i intend to communicate.

Reference:

Berger, J. (1973). Ways of seeing. London: British Broadcasting Corp.