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THE PICTORIAL LIST

The Pictorial List was launched in January 2020 as a passion project to inspire and support the diverse community of photographers and visual storytellers. Our global online magazine explores the beauty and complexity of all things photography. Dedicated to the inspirational and cultural significance of photography, it exists to tell personal stories from all around the world and to showcase photographers whose pictures convey the essence of a place, or who find the extraordinary in an ordinary place; photographers whose images tell a story.

Street or landscape, still-life or human life, experimental or realistic, color or black and white...everything can be PICTORIAL. We are conscious that by viewing other artists' work we may become interested in new approaches and experimentation in our own photography. We have created an open-minded and supportive platform for sharing great work, connecting with others, and — we hope — inspiring you.

… the goal of art was the vital expression of self. - Alfred Stieglitz

WHY PICTORIAL?

"Is photography truly an art?" The question has been tossed back and forth for nearly two centuries since the medium's birth. Even now, as technology continues to advance and the number of photographs produced each day reaches staggering numbers, the debate rages on. The Pictorialists, who first posed the question in the early 19th century, are still at the center of the discussion. Their belief in the artistic value of photography, despite its origins as a means of documentation, has sparked a movement that has endured through the ages.

In 1902, the Pictorialism movement emerged, led by a group of photographers who saw the potential for their craft to transcend mere snapshots. This movement, made up of camera clubs and societies across Europe, the United States, and Australia, challenged preconceived notions of photography. It was their belief that photography could be just as expressive and creative as any form of traditional art, such as painting. One of the most influential figures of this movement was Alfred Stieglitz, who dedicated his life to elevating photography to the status of fine art.

In response to the rise of "instant" photography, the Pictorialists strived to change society's perception of photography, pushing for it to be seen as a medium worthy of being viewed through a fine art lens. The Pictorialists saw themselves as true amateurs, driven by their passion for the art of photography.

What set Pictorialist photography apart was its ethereal and dreamlike aesthetic. These photographers were masters of composition, color, and technique, using their skills to create photographs that were more than just a representation of reality. They believed in the artistic vision of the photographer and saw the potential for photography to be a medium for creative expression. Through their pioneering efforts, they set the stage for photography to be recognized as a form of fine art.

Despite the ongoing debate, the legacy of the Pictorialists lives on, inspiring future generations to see the beauty and artistry in the world of photography. We hold photography as an art form in high esteem, while also acknowledging that not all photography is by default art.

THE PICTORIAL MAGAZINE

In The Pictorial Magazine we take a step beyond features. We provide in-depth pictorial stories and interviews with photographers. The people we interview are generous enough to give us their stories and their precious time to help us create this magazine. Whether you are interested in social issues, human interest stories, or special places...the stories and interviews in our magazine are diverse and there is sure to be something of interest there for you.

DISCOVERY + INSPIRATION + COMMUNITY

BE DISCOVERED //

If you are a photographer with a photo story to share then we would love to see it! Artistic or lyrical; social or political; new or old; anything! We want to help support you and the work you create. Share your photography projects with us.

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