Cultural Photography: Read and Write
Considering the vagueness of the term “cultural photography,” there stands no official definition of the profession or what it expects. This, however, ensures cultural photographers an unlimited freedom to what they choose/want to shoot in the world. Unlike official branches of photography related to culture, cultural photography views the world from the perspective of all people, no matter what their identity may be.
Cultural photography holds no limit. Unlike the standards of many famous photography organizations, like National Geographic, cultural photography does not require a photographer to shoot within a specific standard/expectation. For example, hired photographers within National Geographic are highly encouraged to focus their pictures on color and saturation. This rule, however, may not seem fitting for other ideas/traditions of other cultures around the world. Cultural photography welcomes all forms of expression, even those captured in black and white.
The greatest way to capture the most meaningful picture is through experience. Especially when focusing on cultures photographers are clueless about, it is extremely important to understand the traditions and beliefs of the culture to capture the true essence of its values. Whether that may take a few months or a few years, becoming familiar with various cultures before dedicating your photographic field to it builds the quality of your photographs.