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Black and white Quote by Martin Parr

“In the '70s, in Britain, if you were going to do serious photography, you were obliged to work in black-and-white. Color was the palette of commercial photography and snapshot photography.” quote by Martin Parr
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“In the '70s, in Britain, if you were going to do serious photography, you were obliged to work in black-and-white. Color was the palette of commercial photography and snapshot photography.”

Martin Parr

About This Quote

The statement reflects a historical constraint in British photography where artistic seriousness demanded monochrome, while color was relegated to commercial and casual use.

In simple terms: Historical color restriction in serious British photography

Key Takeaway

Monochrome as artistic legitimacy

Themes

photography history culture artistic norms technology

Mood

nostalgic analytical

Type

historical observation cultural critique

When to use this quote

  • photography courses
  • museum curations
  • artist interviews

Key Concepts

black‑and‑white aesthetics commercial vs. fine art 1970s Britain

Practical Applications

  • exhibition texts
  • documentary scripts

Questions to Reflect On

  • What impact did color restriction have on visual storytelling?
  • How might this have shaped contemporary photographic values?
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