How Does Sontag Make a Connection Between Photography and Tourism?

Susan Sontag, an American writer, filmmaker, and activist, was a keen observer of the relationship between photography and tourism. In her book “On Photography,” she makes a compelling connection between these two seemingly unrelated subjects. She argues that photography plays a crucial role in the way we experience tourism and how we view the world around us.

Photography as a tool of tourism:

Sontag believes that photography has become an integral part of tourism. Tourists carry their cameras with them to capture the beauty and uniqueness of the places they visit. Photography has allowed people to document their travels, share their experiences with others, and relive those moments later.

However, Sontag also argues that photography has transformed tourism itself. She states that people now travel to take photographs rather than simply experience new cultures or enjoy different environments. Tourists are more concerned with capturing the perfect shot than with immersing themselves in the local culture.

The commodification of experience:

Sontag further explores how photography has changed our relationship with travel and how it has led to the commodification of experience. She asserts that photographs have become commodities that we use to validate our experiences. We tend to measure our experiences by the number of likes or comments on social media.

Furthermore, Sontag suggests that photography has transformed how we consume images and memories. We have become accustomed to viewing life through a lens rather than experiencing it first-hand. We rely on photographs as a substitute for actual experiences.

The power dynamics in photography:

According to Sontag, photography is not just about capturing images but also about power dynamics. The photographer holds significant power over what is captured and presented to viewers. In this sense, photographers shape our perception of places and people.

Tourists who take photographs are often unaware of this power dynamic and may unconsciously reinforce stereotypes or present one-sided perspectives through their images.

The impact of photography on memory:

Finally, Sontag explores how photography has impacted our memories of travel. She suggests that the act of taking a photograph can actually diminish our memory of an experience. Instead of relying on our own recollection, we rely on the image captured by the camera.

In addition, Sontag argues that photographs can also distort our memories. We tend to remember the images we capture more vividly than the actual experience itself. As a result, our memories become more about the photograph than about the experience.

In conclusion, Susan Sontag’s exploration of photography and tourism is a thought-provoking analysis of how these two fields are intertwined. She highlights how photography has transformed tourism and how it impacts our perception of places and people. By understanding these dynamics, we can become more conscious travelers and photographers who are aware of the power we hold over what we capture and present to others.