Is Photography Really Art?

By definition, yes it is

“A Lime on the Side” (© Mark Ali)

This is a bit of a loaded topic. Anytime you mention the definition of “art”, controversy abounds. It means different things to different people.

So, let’s just jump right into it, shall we?

Here’s one multi-part definition of “art” from Merriam-Webster.com (2024):

• skill acquired by experience, study, or observation
• a branch of learning (e.g., the liberal arts)
• an occupation requiring knowledge or skill
• the conscious use of skill and creative imagination especially in the production of aesthetic objects
• decorative or illustrative elements in printed matter

So, there you have it.

Let’s take them one at a time, and we’ll see how this goes…

“Newport Flower” (© Mark Ali)

“Skill Acquired by Experience, Study, or Observation”

Does photography require skill?

You betcha.

Perhaps less than it used to, given all the automatic features of cameras these days. Most will…