The expression of feminism in photography after the 1970s

This article examines the impact of second and third wave feminism on photography, highlighting the shift towards a mature and open expression within the medium facilitated by the integration of feminist perspectives. The analysis focuses on key photographic projects from the 1970s to the 2010s by Duane Michals, Laurie Simmons, Shirin Neshat, Carrie Mae Weems, and John Dugdale. These projects are explored in the context of their response to feminist ideologies and their reflection of social issues. The article traces the evolution from the second wave’s critique of systemic gender biases to the third wave's emphasis on diversity and intersectionality. It concludes that feminism has significantly influenced photographic art, both in narrative style and in the portrayal of gender and social roles, enhancing the medium's capacity for social commentary and artistic expression.