Snapshot Versions of Life

Description

Snapshot Versions of Life is an important foray into the culture of photography and home life from an anthropologist’s perspective. Examining what he calls “Home Mode” photography, Richard Chalfen explores snapshots, slide shows, family albums, home movies, and home videos, uncovering what people do with their photos as well as what their personal photos do for them. Chalfen’s “Polaroid People” are recognizable—if ironically viewed—relatives, uncles, aunts, and All-American kids. As members of “Kodak Culture” they watch home movies, take pictures of newborn babies, and even, in their darker moments, scratch out the faces of disliked relatives in group photographs. He examines who shoots these photos and why, as well as how they think (or don’t) of planning, editing, and exhibiting their shots. Chalfen’s analysis reveals the culturally structured behavior underlying seemingly spontaneous photographic activities. Review: Chalfen's Snapshot Versions of Llife - Received the book very quickly considering it was international postage. The book was in great condition and a steal of a deal! Review: 家庭における映像文化の解釈 - 米国において1980年代半ばから発展してきたホームムービー研究の基礎を作った一冊とされている。 家庭において撮影されるスナップショットやホームムービーといった映像が、家族にとってどのような精神的意味作用をもっているのか、という点についてhome modeという概念を用いて解釈しようと試みる。 2000年以降に登場したホームムービー研究ではしばしば論理の弱さが指摘されることもあるが、この本を読まずしてホームムービーについて語ることはできないであろう。