4.5 New Objectivity
9 min read•august 21, 2024
emerged in 1920s Germany as a photographic movement focused on and . It rejected emotional expressionism, instead aiming to capture reality with utmost clarity and precision through and .
Key figures like and exemplified the movement's principles. They documented , created systematic , and revealed intricate , emphasizing photography's unique ability to record reality in detail.
Origins of New Objectivity
- New Objectivity emerged as a significant artistic movement in photography during the 1920s, marking a shift towards realism and objectivity in visual representation
- This movement developed in response to the social, political, and economic changes following World War I, influencing the way photographers approached their subjects and techniques
Post-World War I context
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- Emerged in Germany during the era (1919-1933)
- Reflected societal disillusionment and desire for stability after the chaos of war
- Emphasized rationality and objectivity as a means of understanding and documenting reality
- Coincided with rapid industrialization and technological advancements in Germany
Reaction to Expressionism
- Rejected the emotional and subjective approach of Expressionism
- Sought to depict the world as it appeared without artistic embellishment
- Focused on clarity, precision, and factual representation in photography
- Aimed to capture the essence of objects and subjects without personal interpretation
Influence of Bauhaus movement
- Incorporated principles of functionality and simplicity in design
- Emphasized the importance of form following function in photographic composition
- Explored the relationship between art, technology, and industry
- Promoted a systematic and analytical approach to photography
Key characteristics
- New Objectivity in photography aimed to present the world with utmost clarity and precision, rejecting artistic manipulation and subjective interpretation
- This movement emphasized the inherent qualities of the photographic medium, focusing on its ability to capture reality in detail
Emphasis on realism
- Strived to present subjects as they appeared in reality without idealization
- Rejected romanticized or sentimental portrayals common in earlier photographic styles
- Focused on capturing the intrinsic qualities and textures of objects and scenes
- Aimed to reveal the beauty in everyday subjects through meticulous observation
Precision and clarity
- Utilized sharp focus techniques to render subjects with maximum detail
- Employed even lighting to reveal surface textures and forms
- Avoided dramatic shadows or atmospheric effects that might obscure details
- Prioritized technical perfection in exposure, development, and printing processes
Objective representation
- Aimed to minimize the photographer's subjective interpretation of the subject
- Presented subjects in a straightforward, matter-of-fact manner
- Avoided artistic manipulation or alteration of the image in the darkroom
- Emphasized the camera's ability to record reality more accurately than human perception
Notable photographers
- New Objectivity was championed by several influential photographers who defined the movement's aesthetic and philosophical approach
- These photographers' works exemplified the principles of clarity, precision, and objectivity that characterized the movement
Albert Renger-Patzsch
- German photographer known for his precise, detailed images of industrial objects and nature
- Published "" (The World is Beautiful) in 1928, a seminal work of New Objectivity
- Focused on revealing the inherent beauty and form of everyday objects and structures
- Emphasized the importance of photographic technique in capturing the essence of subjects
August Sander
- Renowned for his extensive portrait series "People of the 20th Century"
- Aimed to create a comprehensive typology of German society through systematic portraiture
- Captured subjects from various social classes and professions in their work environments
- Employed a straightforward, neutral approach to portraiture, avoiding flattery or idealization
Karl Blossfeldt
- Specialized in close-up photographs of plants and natural forms
- Published "" (Art Forms in Nature) in 1928, showcasing plant structures
- Revealed the intricate patterns and geometries found in nature through magnified images
- Influenced both photography and design with his systematic approach to natural subjects
Subject matter
- New Objectivity photographers explored a wide range of subjects, focusing on elements of modern life and the natural world
- The movement's emphasis on clarity and precision allowed for a new appreciation of familiar subjects and overlooked details
Industrial landscapes
- Documented factories, machines, and industrial processes with meticulous detail
- Highlighted the geometric forms and patterns found in industrial architecture
- Explored the relationship between humans and technology in the modern workplace
- Captured the rapid industrialization and technological advancements of the era
Portraits and typologies
- Created systematic studies of people from various social classes and professions
- Aimed to document the diversity of human types and social roles in society
- Employed standardized approaches to composition and lighting for consistency
- Focused on revealing character through facial features, clothing, and posture
Natural forms and structures
- Examined plants, animals, and natural objects with scientific precision
- Revealed hidden patterns, textures, and structures through close-up photography
- Drew parallels between natural forms and man-made designs or architectural elements
- Explored the concept of "Urformen" or primal forms found in nature
Techniques and approaches
- New Objectivity photographers employed specific techniques and approaches to achieve their goal of objective representation
- These methods emphasized the unique capabilities of the photographic medium and its ability to capture reality with precision
Sharp focus vs soft focus
- Prioritized sharp focus to render subjects with maximum detail and clarity
- Rejected the soft focus techniques popular in Pictorialist photography
- Utilized small apertures (high f-numbers) to achieve greater
- Employed precise focusing techniques to ensure sharpness across the entire image
Straight photography principles
- Adhered to the concept of "straight" or "pure" photography without manipulation
- Avoided darkroom techniques that altered the original image (dodging, burning, retouching)
- Emphasized the importance of composition and framing in-camera
- Strived for technical perfection in exposure, development, and printing
Use of large format cameras
- Favored large format cameras (4x5 inch, 8x10 inch) for their superior image quality
- Utilized the movements of view cameras to control perspective and focus plane
- Took advantage of the high resolution and detail capture of large format film
- Employed longer exposure times, necessitating careful composition and subject selection
Impact on photography
- New Objectivity had a profound and lasting influence on the development of photography as an art form and documentary medium
- The movement's principles continue to resonate in various aspects of contemporary photography
Influence on documentary style
- Established a foundation for objective, factual approaches to documentary photography
- Influenced the development of photojournalism and social documentary practices
- Promoted the idea of photography as a tool for social observation and critique
- Inspired later documentary photographers to adopt systematic and typological approaches
Relationship to Neue Sachlichkeit
- Paralleled the broader (New Objectivity) movement in German art
- Shared similar goals of depicting reality without idealization or subjective interpretation
- Contributed to the overall cultural shift towards rationality and objectivity in the arts
- Influenced and was influenced by developments in painting, literature, and architecture
Legacy in contemporary photography
- Continues to influence photographers working in various genres (landscape, still life, portraiture)
- Informs contemporary approaches to typological and systematic photography projects
- Resonates with digital photography's emphasis on sharpness and high-resolution imaging
- Inspires photographers to explore the inherent qualities and limitations of their medium
Critical reception
- The reception of New Objectivity photography evolved over time, reflecting changing attitudes towards art, photography, and representation
- Critical perspectives on the movement have shifted from initial enthusiasm to later reassessment and renewed appreciation
Contemporary responses
- Initially praised for its clarity, precision, and rejection of artistic pretension
- Viewed as a progressive and modern approach to photography in the 1920s and 1930s
- Criticized by some for its perceived coldness and lack of emotional engagement
- Debated in terms of its relationship to broader artistic and cultural movements
Later reassessment
- Reevaluated in the context of 20th-century art history and photographic developments
- Recognized for its significant influence on documentary and conceptual photography
- Critiqued for potential connections to totalitarian aesthetics and rationalization
- Analyzed in terms of its relationship to , realism, and avant-garde movements
Influence on art history
- Contributed to the establishment of photography as a legitimate art form
- Shaped discussions about objectivity, realism, and representation in visual arts
- Informed theoretical debates about the nature and purpose of photography
- Influenced the development of photographic education and institutional collections
New Objectivity vs other movements
- New Objectivity developed in dialogue and opposition to other photographic and artistic movements of its time
- Comparing New Objectivity to these movements highlights its unique characteristics and philosophical approach
New Objectivity vs Pictorialism
- Rejected 's emphasis on soft focus and painterly effects
- Prioritized sharp focus and clarity over atmospheric or romantic imagery
- Emphasized the inherent qualities of photography rather than imitating painting
- Sought to reveal reality rather than create idealized or imaginative scenes
New Objectivity vs Surrealism
- Focused on objective representation rather than subconscious or dream-like imagery
- Emphasized rational observation over irrational juxtapositions or manipulations
- Aimed to reveal the extraordinary in ordinary subjects through precise observation
- Rejected the use of techniques like multiple exposures or darkroom manipulations
New Objectivity vs Modernism
- Shared Modernism's interest in form, structure, and technological progress
- Differed in its emphasis on realism and objectivity over abstraction or experimentation
- Focused on documenting existing reality rather than creating new visual languages
- Emphasized the camera's mechanical nature rather than the artist's subjective vision
Cultural and social context
- New Objectivity emerged within a specific cultural and social context that shaped its development and reception
- The movement reflected and responded to the rapid changes occurring in German society during the interwar period
Weimar Republic era
- Coincided with the period of German history between World War I and the Nazi regime
- Reflected the cultural and intellectual climate of the Weimar Republic (1919-1933)
- Responded to the political instability and social upheaval of the time
- Aligned with broader cultural trends towards rationality and objectivity
Industrialization and modernity
- Documented and engaged with the rapid industrialization of German society
- Explored the relationship between humans, technology, and the built environment
- Reflected the optimism and anxiety associated with modernization and progress
- Captured the changing urban landscape and new forms of labor and production
Shifting social structures
- Responded to the breakdown of traditional social hierarchies after World War I
- Documented the emergence of new social classes and professional identities
- Explored changing gender roles and family structures in modern society
- Reflected the tension between tradition and modernity in German culture
Theoretical foundations
- New Objectivity was grounded in philosophical and theoretical ideas about art, perception, and reality
- These concepts informed the movement's approach to photography and its goals of objective representation
Ideas of objectivity in art
- Drew on philosophical concepts of objectivity and empirical observation
- Challenged traditional notions of artistic subjectivity and expression
- Explored the relationship between mechanical reproduction and human perception
- Questioned the role of the artist in creating or interpreting reality
Concept of "thing-in-itself"
- Influenced by Kantian philosophy and the idea of the "noumenon" or
- Sought to reveal the essential nature of objects beyond surface appearances
- Emphasized the camera's ability to capture details invisible to the human eye
- Explored the tension between objective reality and subjective perception
Phenomenology and perception
- Engaged with phenomenological ideas about direct experience and perception
- Investigated the relationship between visual appearance and essential qualities
- Explored how photography could reveal new ways of seeing and understanding the world
- Questioned the nature of reality and our ability to perceive it objectively
Legacy and influence
- The principles and aesthetics of New Objectivity continue to influence various aspects of photography and visual culture
- The movement's legacy can be seen in both commercial and artistic applications of photography
Impact on photojournalism
- Influenced the development of objective, factual approaches to news photography
- Contributed to the establishment of photojournalistic ethics and practices
- Inspired documentary photographers to adopt systematic and typological approaches
- Shaped the visual language of reportage and social documentary photography
Influence on advertising photography
- Informed product photography techniques emphasizing clarity and detail
- Contributed to the development of modernist advertising aesthetics
- Influenced the use of photography in catalogs and technical documentation
- Shaped approaches to architectural and industrial photography for commercial purposes
Contemporary interpretations
- Continues to inspire photographers working in conceptual and fine art contexts
- Informs contemporary approaches to typology and seriality in photography
- Resonates with digital photography's capacity for high-resolution imaging
- Influences discussions about objectivity and subjectivity in the age of image manipulation
Key Terms to Review (28)
Albert Renger-Patzsch: Albert Renger-Patzsch was a German photographer known for his contributions to the New Objectivity movement in the 1920s. His work is characterized by its emphasis on clarity, precision, and the objective representation of reality, showcasing everyday objects and industrial landscapes with an artistic sensibility that transcended mere documentation.
August Sander: August Sander was a German photographer known for his portraits that depicted the diversity of German society in the early 20th century. His work is often associated with the New Objectivity movement, which emphasized a straightforward and documentary style, aiming to capture the essence of people in their social contexts. Sander's most notable project, 'People of the 20th Century', aimed to classify and document various social types, reflecting the complexities of human identity in a rapidly changing world.
Bauhaus: Bauhaus was a revolutionary school of art, design, and architecture founded in Germany in 1919, known for its approach that emphasized the unity of art and technology. It aimed to create functional, beautiful objects that could be mass-produced, influencing various design fields, including photography. The movement's focus on simplicity, geometric forms, and the integration of fine arts into everyday life played a key role in shaping modern aesthetics and has had a lasting impact on styles seen in photography and fashion.
Depth of Field: Depth of field refers to the range of distance within a photo that appears acceptably sharp. It’s influenced by several factors including aperture, lens focal length, and the distance from the subject. Understanding depth of field helps photographers control focus, creating images with either a blurred background or a sharp foreground, depending on the desired effect.
Die welt ist schön: The phrase 'die welt ist schön', which translates to 'the world is beautiful', encapsulates a key perspective within the New Objectivity movement, emphasizing a realist approach to photography that showcases the ordinary and the aesthetic beauty of everyday life. This outlook reflects a desire to present reality without embellishment, focusing on the simplicity and inherent beauty found in common subjects. This philosophy pushed photographers to document their surroundings with an appreciation for the mundane, while also responding to the changing socio-political landscape of early 20th century Germany.
Documentary theory: Documentary theory refers to the framework and critical approach used to understand and analyze documentary photography as a form of visual representation that aims to capture reality. It emphasizes the relationship between the photographer, the subject, and the audience, questioning how truth is constructed through images. This theory connects deeply with movements that prioritize objectivity and social commentary, especially in the context of New Objectivity, which emerged in the early 20th century as a reaction to emotionalism in art.
Even Lighting: Even lighting refers to a lighting technique that produces uniform illumination across a subject, minimizing harsh shadows and highlights. This approach enhances the clarity of details and textures, making it particularly effective for capturing scenes with a straightforward representation of the subject matter, which aligns well with the principles of objective photography.
Film und foto: Film und Foto refers to a significant movement in photography that emerged in the 1920s, emphasizing clarity, precision, and a focus on everyday subjects. This movement was heavily associated with the New Objectivity, which rejected romanticism and embraced a more objective representation of reality, often through documentary-style photography. The concept highlighted the idea that both film and photography could serve as tools for social commentary and critique, reflecting the modern life of the time.
Formalism: Formalism is an artistic approach that emphasizes the visual elements and aesthetic qualities of a work rather than its content or context. It focuses on how something is constructed—such as composition, color, and form—prioritizing these aspects to evoke meaning. In photography, formalism became particularly significant during periods that sought to redefine artistic expression, especially in movements that distanced themselves from narrative and social content.
Industrial landscapes: Industrial landscapes refer to the visual representation of industrial environments, emphasizing factories, machinery, and urban settings shaped by manufacturing and economic activities. These landscapes often reflect the social, cultural, and environmental impacts of industrialization, capturing both the beauty and harsh realities of modernity. The depiction of industrial landscapes is significant in understanding how technology and industry alter the physical world and influence society's perception of progress.
Karl Blossfeldt: Karl Blossfeldt was a German photographer and artist known for his detailed close-up photographs of plants, which highlighted their unique structures and forms. His work emphasized a scientific approach to photography, blending art and natural history, which contributed to the broader movement of New Objectivity by focusing on clarity, precision, and a direct representation of subjects.
Minimalism: Minimalism is an art and design movement characterized by simplicity, clarity, and a focus on essential elements. In photography, it strips down images to their most basic forms, emphasizing composition, light, and space while eliminating unnecessary details. This approach allows viewers to engage more deeply with the work, promoting contemplation and reflection.
Modernism: Modernism is a cultural and artistic movement that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, characterized by a break from traditional forms and an exploration of new techniques, ideas, and perspectives. It reflects a desire to capture the essence of modern life and often emphasizes abstraction, subjectivity, and experimentation, which connects to various developments in photography and visual arts.
Natural forms: Natural forms refer to shapes, patterns, and structures found in the natural world that can be captured and represented through photography. In the context of visual art and photography, these forms emphasize realism and the inherent beauty of nature, often focusing on organic shapes and textures that reflect the environment's authenticity and complexity.
Neue sachlichkeit: Neue Sachlichkeit, or New Objectivity, refers to an art movement that emerged in Germany during the 1920s as a response to the emotional and exaggerated styles of Expressionism. It emphasized a return to realism and clarity, focusing on everyday life and social issues with an unembellished perspective. This movement highlighted a more objective and factual representation in art and photography, portraying subjects without idealization or sentimentality.
New Objectivity: New Objectivity is a cultural movement that emerged in Germany during the 1920s, characterized by a focus on realism and a rejection of emotional expression in art and photography. This movement aimed to provide an unembellished view of life, often addressing social issues and depicting the harsh realities of the time, contrasting sharply with the previous romanticism of Expressionism.
Objectivity: Objectivity refers to the practice of presenting information without personal bias, emotions, or subjective interpretations. In photography and journalism, it emphasizes the importance of portraying subjects as they are, allowing viewers to draw their own conclusions. This concept is crucial for establishing credibility and trust in visual media, as it seeks to maintain a neutral stance in representation.
Phenomenology: Phenomenology is a philosophical approach that focuses on the study of consciousness and the objects of direct experience. It emphasizes how individuals perceive and interpret their experiences, rather than solely relying on objective reality. This perspective is particularly relevant in the context of visual culture, where it examines the relationship between viewers and images, revealing how perception shapes understanding.
Pictorialism: Pictorialism was an artistic movement in photography during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, which aimed to elevate photography to the status of fine art. This movement emphasized the use of soft focus, artistic composition, and manipulation of the photographic process to create images that conveyed emotional and aesthetic qualities rather than mere documentation.
Portraits: Portraits are artistic representations of individuals, often focusing on their facial expressions and appearance to convey their personality or mood. These images have been a key way to document people throughout history, capturing not just likenesses but also the social status, emotions, and cultural backgrounds of subjects. The evolution of portraiture reflects changes in society and technology, influencing how people perceive identity and memory.
Realism: Realism is an artistic and literary movement that seeks to represent subjects as they are in everyday life, without embellishment or interpretation. This approach emphasizes authenticity, often portraying ordinary people and common scenes to challenge idealized notions of beauty and art. Realism in photography reflects this philosophy, focusing on capturing genuine moments and true representations of the world, connecting deeply with both societal contexts and the technological advancements of the time.
Sharp focus: Sharp focus refers to the clarity and detail captured in a photograph, where the subject appears crisp and well-defined, making it easy for viewers to appreciate the image's intricacies. This technique is essential in photography to convey realism and precision, highlighting the importance of technical skills like aperture settings and lens selection. The pursuit of sharp focus has been a hallmark of various movements that prioritize clarity in their visual narrative.
Straight photography: Straight photography is a style of photography that emphasizes the use of the camera's inherent qualities to capture reality without manipulation or artistic interpretation. This approach emerged in the early 20th century as a response to more artistic styles, advocating for clarity, detail, and the truthful representation of subjects.
Surrealism: Surrealism is an artistic and literary movement that seeks to explore the unconscious mind and create a dream-like reality by combining unexpected elements and juxtapositions. It often challenges traditional perceptions of reality, using bizarre imagery and irrational scenes to provoke thought and evoke emotions. This movement has deeply influenced various forms of art, including photography, pushing artists to experiment with new concepts and techniques that reflect the complexity of human experience.
Thing-in-itself: The term 'thing-in-itself' refers to the concept of an object as it exists independently of perception or interpretation, particularly in philosophical discourse. This notion emphasizes the distinction between the way objects appear to us through our senses and their actual essence or nature, which remains inaccessible. This distinction is crucial in understanding how New Objectivity seeks to present the world in a clear and unembellished manner, capturing reality without subjective influence.
Typologies: Typologies refer to the classification or categorization of objects, images, or phenomena based on shared characteristics or themes. In photography, typologies are used to create a systematic approach to understanding visual culture, particularly in the context of organizing images that reflect specific social, cultural, or artistic movements.
Urformen der kunst: Urformen der Kunst translates to 'the primal forms of art' and refers to a theoretical framework developed by early 20th-century artists, particularly in the context of New Objectivity. This concept emphasizes the importance of fundamental forms and structures in art, advocating for a return to simplicity and authenticity in artistic expression, contrasting with the more expressive and abstract styles prevalent at the time.
Weimar Republic: The Weimar Republic was the democratic government established in Germany from 1919 to 1933, following the end of World War I and the abdication of Kaiser Wilhelm II. It is characterized by significant political instability, economic turmoil, and cultural innovation, which laid the groundwork for movements like New Objectivity in the arts and photography, reflecting the complex social realities of the time.