This paper explores André Bazin’s seminal work, The Ontology of the Photographic Image, and its significance in film theory, particularly his emphasis on realism in photography and cinema. Bazin argues that photography and cinema represent a more authentic portrayal of reality compared to earlier art forms like painting, which are constrained by the artist’s subjective interpretation. This paper not only examines Bazin’s philosophical and aesthetic contributions to the understanding of film and photography but also connects these concepts to sociological themes. It examines how visual media, particularly cinema, play a pivotal role in shaping societal structures, cultural perceptions, and social identities. By examining Bazin’s theory alongside contemporary sociological issues, this paper highlights the continuing relevance of realism in film and its power to influence social change.
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Yuan, Z. (2025) The Ontology of the Photographic Image: A Sociological Perspective. Journal of Social Development and History, 1(3), 1-4.