On Photography

by Susan Sontag
On Photography cover
Good Books rating 4.19
Art, Design, and Photography
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  • ID: 1338
  • Added: 2025-10-05
  • Updated: 2026-01-06
  • ISBN: 9780312420093
  • Publisher: Picador
  • Published: 1977-01-01
  • Formats: 20
  • Reviews: 4

In 'On Photography,' Susan Sontag delves into the ways photography shapes our understanding of the world. She examines the ethical implications of capturing images and the role of photography in both personal and political contexts. /n/n Sontag's essays challenge readers to think critically about the power of images and their influence on society. This collection of insightful critiques remains a cornerstone of visual culture studies.

Reviews
Reddit · u/unknown · 2026-01-04
fascinating 4.50

This book is fascinating as an act of critical thinking and interpretation. The author's insights are both insightful and challenging.

This book is a fascinating exploration of critical thinking and interpretation. The author's insights are both insightful and challenging, making this a must-read for anyone interested in the power of photography. The book is a collection of essays that delve into the various ways photographs can represent the world. The author's insights are both insightful and challenging, making this a must-read for anyone interested in the power of photography.

Quick quotes

    This book is fascinating as an act of critical thinking and interpretation.

    The author's insights are both insightful and challenging.

    The book is a collection of essays that delve into the various ways photographs can represent the world.

BeansnBooks · 2024-11-05
thought-provoking 3.50

The book received criticism for lacking academic depth, but Sontag's arguments are compelling despite these claims. It offers a unique perspective on the role of photography in society.

This reviewer noted that 'On Photography' has faced criticism for not being deeply academic, but they argue that Sontag's insights are still valuable. They appreciate the way Sontag challenges conventional views on photography and its impact on how we see the world. The book is seen as thought-provoking, even if it doesn't delve as deeply into academic theory as some might hope. The reviewer finds Sontag's perspective refreshing and her arguments compelling, making the book a worthwhile read for anyone interested in the cultural significance of photography.

Quick quotes

    On Photography received criticism for lacking academic roots, and for not delving deeper into its own arguments.

    Sontag refuted these claims with compelling insights.

    The book offers a unique perspective on the role of photography in society.

Blind Magazine · Unknown · 2023-02-09
insightful 4.25

While these photographs don't affect the book's well-crafted prose, their presence is an aid to the imagination, and helps to put a finger on the book's themes.

This book is a collection of essays that delve into the various ways photographs can represent the world. The author's insights are both insightful and challenging, making this a must-read for anyone interested in the power of photography. The book's well-crafted prose is aided by the presence of photographs, which help to put a finger on the book's themes. The author's insights are both insightful and challenging, making this a must-read for anyone interested in the power of photography.

Quick quotes

    While these photographs don't affect the book's well-crafted prose, their presence is an aid to the imagination.

    The book's well-crafted prose is aided by the presence of photographs, which help to put a finger on the book's themes.

    The author's insights are both insightful and challenging.

The Art Newspaper · Fineman · 2022-09-05
influential 4.50

The book is celebrated for its engaging and voracious exploration of photography's impact, making it a timeless and influential work. It is noted for its power and originality in addressing the medium's complexities.

Fineman's review emphasizes the power and originality of On Photography, particularly Sontag's eagerness to engage with the promiscuity and voraciousness of the medium. They highlight how Sontag's work remains influential and relevant, offering a deep and engaging exploration of photography's impact on society. The book is praised for its timeless insights and its ability to provoke thought about the role of photography in our lives.

Quick quotes

    The power and originality of Sontag's book lie in her eagerness to engage with photography's promiscuity.

    Its voraciousness, and the way it challenges readers to think about the medium's impact, make it a timeless work.

    Sontag's work remains influential and relevant, offering deep insights into the complexities of photography.

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