Task 1 – Long reading

Read the following text about a cultural phenomenon and answer the 15 questions.

The Enduring Power of Photography

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Photography, an art form that captures moments in time, has profoundly shaped how we perceive and record the world. Its origins trace back to ancient observations of light, but the first permanent photographic image was created by Joseph Nicéphore Niépce in 1826 or 1827. Early processes like the daguerreotype, introduced in 1839, made photography accessible to a wider audience, though they were cumbersome and expensive. Initially seen as a scientific tool, photography soon began to evolve into a powerful artistic medium and a vital means of documentation.

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The 20th century witnessed a rapid democratization of photography. The introduction of roll film and smaller, more portable cameras, most notably by Kodak, made photography accessible to the masses. This allowed ordinary people to document their lives, travels, and families, fostering a new visual culture. Photojournalism emerged as a powerful force, bringing distant events and conflicts directly into homes, influencing public opinion and shaping historical narratives. Iconic photographs from wars or social movements became symbols of their era, demonstrating photography's ability to transcend language barriers.

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Beyond its role in journalism and personal memories, photography proved instrumental in various scientific and social fields. In medicine, X-rays revolutionized diagnostics, while in astronomy, long-exposure photography revealed distant galaxies previously invisible to the naked eye. Social reformers used photographs to expose poverty and injustice, prompting calls for change. Advertisers quickly recognized its persuasive power, using images to create desire and influence consumer behaviour, thereby laying the groundwork for modern visual marketing.

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The advent of digital photography in the late 20th century marked another revolutionary turning point. Digital cameras eliminated the need for film and darkroom processing, offering instant feedback and the ability to store thousands of images. This technological leap, coupled with the rise of the internet, paved the way for the explosion of social media platforms. Suddenly, sharing photos globally became instantaneous and effortless, transforming personal communication and creating new forms of visual storytelling.

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Today, photography is ubiquitous, from professional art galleries to personal smartphones. Its accessibility means everyone can be a photographer, capturing and sharing their unique perspectives. While some debate the artistic merit of this widespread availability, there's no denying its impact. Photography continues to be a crucial tool for memory, identity, social commentary, and artistic expression, constantly evolving alongside new technologies while maintaining its fundamental power to connect us to moments, places, and each other across time.