Ethical Considerations and Analysis in Relation to Photography

Right from its invention, the origin of photography was linked to a commercial context. This explains that its professionalization has also been based on economic grounds. In this way, the photographer and his/ her camera became simply a means to obtain economic profits through his/her photos. Such perspective fostered the dehumanization of photography. An alternative perspective to this situation points out the possibility of endowing photography with an ethical underpinning. Kantian ethics constitute a moral basis where human beings are considered not only as a means, but also as an end in itself In this way, both humanity and human actions recover their dignity From this point of view derives the formula: the photographic act is a moral act. In these terms, the photographer and his/her camera involve a human purpose, they are not simply a means with a financial aim. This consideration puts forth a path gives which endows the photographic profession with an ethical support.