As an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, I often encounter the question, “Is photography art?” This seemingly simple question sparks a debate that frequently appears in IELTS Reading passages, challenging your ability to comprehend complex arguments and analyze diverse perspectives. This article will delve into why this topic is relevant to the IELTS, equipping you with the skills to confidently tackle related reading passages and achieve a high score.
Why “Is Photography Art?” Appears in IELTS Readings
The IELTS exam evaluates your ability to understand and engage with academic discourse. The question of photography as art is a recurring theme in academic circles because it touches upon:
- Subjectivity and Interpretation: Art is inherently subjective, and photography, with its ability to capture reality, raises questions about the role of the photographer’s intention and the viewer’s perception.
- Technological Advancements: The evolution of photographic technology, from traditional film to digital manipulation, fuels the debate about the artistic merit of the medium.
- Social and Cultural Impact: Photography has profoundly impacted how we document history, perceive beauty, and understand different cultures, making it a relevant topic for sociological and anthropological discussions.
By including passages on this topic, the IELTS exam assesses your ability to:
- Identify the main arguments and supporting evidence.
- Understand the nuances of different perspectives.
- Analyze the writer’s tone and purpose.
Mastering IELTS Reading Passages on Photography as Art
Here’s how to effectively approach IELTS reading passages on this topic:
1. Build Background Knowledge
Familiarize yourself with key concepts and arguments surrounding photography as art. Research renowned photographers, different photographic styles (e.g., portraiture, photojournalism), and the historical evolution of the medium. This will improve your comprehension and speed when reading complex passages.
2. Skim and Scan Effectively
Start by skimming the passage to grasp the main idea and the writer’s overall stance. Then, scan for keywords related to the questions to quickly locate the relevant information.
3. Pay Attention to Language
Be mindful of language that indicates the writer’s opinion (e.g., “clearly,” “undoubtedly”) or contrasting viewpoints (e.g., “however,” “on the other hand”). This will be crucial for answering questions about the writer’s attitude or identifying different perspectives presented in the passage.
4. Practice with Past IELTS Reading Tests
The best way to prepare is to practice with authentic IELTS reading materials. Pay attention to the types of questions asked and analyze your strengths and weaknesses. This will help you develop effective strategies for tackling different question types.
Example: Analyzing an Excerpt
Let’s consider a hypothetical excerpt from an IELTS reading passage:
“While some argue that photography merely replicates reality, others contend that it transcends mere documentation. The photographer’s choices – framing, composition, lighting – imbue the image with their unique perspective, transforming it into an artistic expression.”
photography as art
Questions:
- What is the main point of this excerpt?
- Identify two contrasting views presented in the excerpt.
Answers:
- The main point is to highlight the debate surrounding photography as art, acknowledging both sides of the argument.
- The two contrasting views are: (a) photography as a mere replication of reality and (b) photography as transcending documentation and becoming artistic expression through the photographer’s choices.
Achieving a High Score: Tips and Strategies
- Develop a Strong Vocabulary: Expand your vocabulary related to art, photography, and critical analysis. This will help you understand complex ideas and express yourself accurately.
- Improve Your Reading Speed: Time management is crucial in the IELTS reading test. Practice speed reading techniques to efficiently process information within the given timeframe.
- Understand Question Types: Familiarize yourself with different question types, such as multiple choice, true/false/not given, and matching headings. This will help you approach each question strategically.
Conclusion
The question “Is photography art?” is not about finding the right answer. It’s about demonstrating your ability to navigate complex arguments, understand different perspectives, and extract relevant information from academic texts. By developing your reading comprehension skills, expanding your vocabulary, and practicing regularly with past IELTS reading materials, you’ll be well-equipped to succeed in this section of the exam. Remember, consistent effort and a strategic approach are key to achieving your desired IELTS score!