During this half-day workshop, students learned about the methods of analyzing historical images. Topics ranged from simple observations to the complex question of how one’s analysis today will shape the history of tomorrow.

In addition to identifying the subject and occasion of a photograph, participants learned to deduce information related to the origin, intended audience and purpose of the picture. They also discussed the parameters of dealing with and comparing images in the context of a collection in order to determine the cultural statements of a particular photographer.