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The Role of Photography in Social Movements: Documenting and Influencing Public Perception through Visual Storytelling
Abstract
This article explores the critical role of photography in social movements, emphasizing its dual function as a tool for documentation and a powerful medium for influencing public perception. Through a historical overview, the article examines how iconic photographs from movements like the Civil Rights Movement and Anti-Apartheid Movement have become symbolic representations of their respective causes. In the digital age, the impact of photography has been amplified by social media, allowing images to rapidly reach and mobilize global audiences. Survey data reveals that a significant majority of individuals experience strong emotional reactions to social movement photography, which in turn increases their likelihood of participating in activism. The article also addresses the ethical challenges photographers face in accurately and responsibly documenting social movements. The conclusion highlights the ongoing importance of photography in driving social change and the need for ethical considerations in its practice.
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