Critical and analytic theories in photography

• Understand the concepts and arguments put forward in the writings studied and in class discussion.
• Use these concepts in analysis of photographic works and have a good sense of their relevance for thinking about visual culture more generally.
• Feel confident that you have a grasp of some of the key debates, issues and ideas that shaped critical and theoretical discussions of photography in the twentieth century and that, on this basis, you can move on to further and related studies.

You may find it useful to buy some of the books discussed during the course.

If you would like to buy art materials for your personal use outside of the course, City Lit students receive 10% discount off everything* from Cass Art, the UK's leading art supplies retailer. Your tutor will advise you on what you should buy. You will need to show your enrolment receipt in-store to receive your discount. Visit the Charing Cross shop at 13 Charing Cross Road WC2H 0EP or find your local shop at *Terms and conditions apply, visit

The tutor will give introductory lectures clarifying the essential content of the text(s) in focus. You will then be given a chance to participate in discussion of visual examples and to apply the concepts studied to these.