Photography and Other Media in the Nineteenth Century

This volume explores the intersections of photography and "new media" in the nineteenth century, challenging disciplinary boundaries and examining the emergence and early history of photography in the context of broader changes in the history of communications. Contributors include notable historians in photography and media history.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 06 February 2019
Publisher: Pennsylvania State University Press

In the captivating realm of photography and media, this volume delves into the profound impact of photography on the evolution of media and communication during the nineteenth century. The arrival of telegraphy, the establishment of a more efficient and dependable postal service, the proliferation of the mass-circulation press, and the advent of the railway ushered in a transformative era that reshaped the very fabric of human interaction and perception of time and space. Simultaneously, photography emerged as a revolutionary medium, revolutionizing the production and dissemination of visual imagery. However, the realm of photography has often been studied in isolation from the broader field of media history.

The contributors to this extraordinary volume boldly challenge these disciplinary boundaries, embarking on a programmatic exploration of the intricate intersections between photography and "new media" during a period of rapid change. Their essays offer a comprehensive examination of photography's emergence and early history, placing it within the broader context of sweeping changes in the history of communications. They shed light on the pivotal role of the nascent photographic press in nurturing the young art of photography, as well as the development of photographic techniques as integral components of a vibrant media culture that encompassed the popular novel, sound recording, and cinema.

This groundbreaking examination of the nineteenth-century communication revolution is a vital addition to the field of media studies. The volume is graced by the expertise of esteemed historians in photography and media history, including Geoffrey Batchen, Geoffrey Belknap, Lynn Berger, Jan von Brevern, Anthony Enns, André Gaudreault, Lisa Gitelman, David Henkin, Erkki Huhtamo, Philippe Marion, Peppino Ortoleva, Steffen Siegel, Richard Taws, and Kim Timby. Their insightful essays provide a deep understanding of the complex interplay between photography and the media, shedding light on the transformative power of visual imagery in shaping our understanding of the world.

In conclusion, this volume is a testament to the enduring significance of photography in the history of media and communication. By transcending disciplinary boundaries and exploring the intricate connections between photography and "new media," it offers a fresh perspective on the nineteenth-century communication revolution. As we delve into the pages of this remarkable work, we are invited to witness the profound impact of photography on our collective memory and imagination, and to appreciate the enduring legacy of this art form in shaping the modern world.

Weight: 514g
Dimension: 254 x 178 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780271079165