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Every photograph has a unique, indefinite quality; it is both objective and subjective at the same time. By just looking at the photograph, you can read its denotative meaning. The connotative meaning of the photograph, in turn, is its subjective aspect. These two qualities complement each other and usually shape our perception of the image simultaneously. A close reading of the photograph is therefore a way of decoding how all these meanings work together to carry the intent of the photographer and what the picture is trying to say to its viewer.

Take this photograph depicting two men, for example. Both of them are formally dressed and smoking cigars. In the background, you can see a building in the Revival architectural style, which was very common in the 19th century in England and the US. Combining these elements together, it is easy to suggest that the photo was taken in one of those countries during the 1800s. While the timeframe is right, it turns out that the actual location of the photograph has nothing to do with these countries; the photograph was taken in Russia. You cannot definitely tell that unless you have seen this picture before, so you can find such information only by searching it up.

That brings us to the second important part of close readings, research. The close reading of the photograph itself is often very useful for understanding the context behind the photograph. But when combined with research, it may offer surprising results. The fact that it was easy to confuse 19th century Russia with England encourages you to think more about the history of Russia at that time. You may find out that after the 1700s it underwent westernization under Peter the Great, which made the country look very similar to Europe. This is the power of research.

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