Photography is art and always will be. In my mind, that is a given. But, as someone who has made photography virtually their entire personality for the past three years, why would I believe any different?

I have seen how much work I have put into my craft, but throughout my time as a photographer, I have learned that not everybody shares the same appreciation I do. 

I first heard about this wedge in beliefs from my high school photography teacher. We were talking about our school’s annual art show, where students can submit artworks across a wide variety of media, including photography. To my surprise, he mentioned that, still today, some people do not classify it as art. This confused me greatly, as I was in the process of prepping my senior wall of photographs that I had worked so hard on. From that day on, I began to view photography with a different lens and a deeper appreciation for its artistic capabilities today. 

Photography began as more of a scientific and technical pursuit than an artistic endeavor, with complex processes such as daguerreotypes, calotypes and heliographs being among the first.

Because the digital age of photography did not take form until the late 20th century, which allowed for more freedom and creativity, it helps explain some of the differences in opinions. 

However, even though photography has become more globally recognized as an art form, it is still often placed at the bottom of the art medium totem pole. 

While photography has been around for the shortest amount of time, this partially makes sense. However, I think this is due to a lack of understanding of what it takes to produce a successful still image. 

I do not mean to downplay the incredible talent and hard work artists of all types utilize to create their pieces; I just believe that photographers deserve the same recognition and appreciation.

Not only does photography require technical and editing skills, but also the ability to notice order and composition in seemingly disorganized environments. Photography is a means of expression. Some people have an “eye” for photography, similar to how people have a natural skill for other art forms. 

The main deterrent that I have noticed for people who do not classify photography as art boils down to the intent of the photograph. A fun selfie with friends?

Even I would not consider it as art, so long as the intent behind the photograph was just a fun way to look back at a memory. I have noticed many people only recognize a photograph as art if it is a “good” photo, with clear time and effort spent in creating it. 

I think all types of art should be appreciated equally for the work artists put into them. I am not saying one art form is better than the next, or that photography should take priority over anything else.

I just encourage you to think deeper about the meaning behind the next photo you look at and challenge yourself to view it in a different way — with the lens of an artist. 

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