WORKSHOP: The Photograph as Data — University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Why should scientists engage with photography? Can we consider research photographs as works of art or visual culture? This theory-and-practice workshop focuses on the many relationships between photography, research, truth, and data, particularly in the ecological sciences. Given that many components of ecological systems are only made visible through looking at images of their remains, or through examining aerial data maps or other computations, the photograph has become an important framing device and catalyst for scientific practices. In the workshop, participants will discuss their research practices, examine some key photographs that have been central to histories of scientific research, and hear about contemporary artists who are taking up ecology and visualization in their work.