Untitled (photograph of woman seated by flowers in large hat c. 1940

This photograph of a woman seated by flowers in a large hat was created by Paul Gittings at an unknown date, using photographic film. The photograph's appearance is influenced by the inherent qualities of the film—its texture, weight, and chemical composition. The photographic process itself, involving exposure, development, and printing, embodies a complex interplay of technical skill, industrial materials, and standardized procedures. Gittings engaged with the skilled traditions of studio photography, navigating the technical complexities to achieve the desired aesthetic effect. The photograph is directly tied to wider social issues of labor, politics, and consumption. The production of photographic materials, the operation of the studio, and the depiction of the sitter, all reflect specific conditions of labor and commerce. The photograph documents a collaboration of industries and specialists, with the final photographic print being a consumer product for a specific audience. By emphasizing the materials, making, and context, the photograph challenges traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.