Dorothea Lange

Definition

Dorothea Lange was an influential American documentary photographer best known for her poignant images of the Great Depression, particularly her iconic photograph 'Migrant Mother.' Her work highlighted the struggles of marginalized communities and brought attention to social issues, making her a pivotal figure in the evolution of documentary photography.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Lange's most famous photograph, 'Migrant Mother,' depicts a weary mother and her children during the Great Depression, capturing their hardship and resilience.
2. She was instrumental in using photography as a means of advocacy, helping to shape public perception and policy regarding poverty and labor issues.
3. Lange's work emphasized empathy and understanding, pushing against the boundaries of traditional objectivity in documentary photography.
4. Her photographs were often featured in government publications, bringing national attention to the plight of those affected by the economic crisis.
5. Lange's influence extended beyond her lifetime; she inspired generations of photographers to focus on social justice issues through visual storytelling.

Review Questions

• How did Dorothea Lange’s work with the FSA influence the style and approach of documentary photography?
  • Dorothea Lange's collaboration with the FSA significantly impacted documentary photography by introducing a focus on social issues and human emotion. Her striking images revealed the struggles of ordinary people during the Great Depression, making the viewer empathize with their plight. This approach fostered a shift from mere documentation to a deeper narrative that highlighted social injustices, setting a precedent for future documentary photographers.
• In what ways did Lange's photography reflect the tension between objectivity and subjectivity in documentary work?
  • Lange's photography embodies the tension between objectivity and subjectivity through her powerful use of emotional storytelling. While she aimed to document reality truthfully, her choice of subjects and framing often evoked strong feelings and highlighted personal narratives. This subjective lens allowed viewers to connect with the hardships portrayed, challenging the notion that documentary work should remain strictly factual and detached.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of Dorothea Lange’s work on contemporary social advocacy in photography.
  • Dorothea Lange’s legacy in photography has profoundly influenced contemporary social advocacy by demonstrating how powerful imagery can drive awareness and change. Her ability to capture human suffering with compassion inspires current photographers to use their medium for activism. Today, many photographers continue her tradition by addressing social issues through visual narratives that seek to inspire action and empathy, reinforcing the idea that art can serve as a catalyst for social justice.

Related terms

FSA (Farm Security Administration): A New Deal agency that aimed to combat rural poverty during the Great Depression, employing photographers like Lange to document the lives of struggling farmers and their families.

Photojournalism: A form of journalism that uses photographs to tell news stories, often focusing on current events and social issues, which aligns with Lange's approach to documentary photography.

Humanism in Photography: An approach that emphasizes the human experience and focuses on people's emotions, struggles, and dignity, reflecting Lange's style in her powerful imagery.