Untitled (portrait of woman in formal dress and glasses seated on sofa under painting of river) c. 1940

This photograph of a woman in formal dress was created by Paul Gittings, using gelatin silver print. Gittings was known for his society portraits, and this image is a great example of how photography could be used to project social status. The woman is posed in a way that emphasizes her elegance and refinement, and the setting is clearly a well-appointed home. Notice the striped sofa with curved back, and the ornate painting hanging above. Every element is carefully considered to create an impression of wealth and taste. Yet we should also remember that photographs like this were not simply records of reality. They were carefully constructed images, designed to convey a particular message. The labor involved in the making of this photograph included not only the photographer's skill, but also the work of the printers who developed the image. This highlights the way in which even seemingly straightforward images are the product of complex social and economic relationships. They blur the boundaries between art, craft, and commerce.