Digital Photography as Reflexive Practice.

Abstract

The plasticity of the digital photograph far exceeds that of its film counterpart and needs to be examined in its own right (Ritchin 2010). Contemporary multi-shot photography techniques such as HDR, focus stacking, and gigapixel photography allow for an unprecedented level of data capture (Zia 2018). Combined with the flexibility of the digital darkroom, these processes allow photographers to develop a craft workflow that facilitates reflexive practice; as long as the original image data is preserved, the artist has complete freedom to create, combine, and compare different image looks based on their own preferences and tool competencies. This digital workflow allows the artist to revert back to the original data and recraft the look till the desired image look is achieved. This desired image look may be preconceived, or, be discovered and refined during the imagemaking process (Zia 2019). This paper explores the reflexive practice nature of digital photography craft starting from the image acquisition stage when the photographs are captured, through to processing, and post-production. This paper provides insights into the artist’s craft practice highlighting the reflexive nature of the process and demonstrating why key decisions are made in light of alternative options.