What's the difference between a moving image and a photograph? Both require the photographer and film director to be present in the moment. I know that it'd be difficult to compare two very distinct forms of art, but Barthes' liking of photography "in opposition to Cinema" made me want to explore this concept (3).

Both photography and cinema can produce splendid forms of art and tell a story. A photograph can evoke feelings, good and bad. It can serve as a record-keeping tool. It can also be used to express the artist's sentiments or perspective. It contains various elements, much like a movie. In a movie, however, images are continuously in motion. The characters and scenery are always changing based on the plot of the story. Certain details are more emphasized. The lighting and music is also quick to change. There are just so many elements that make up the framework of a movie. When you break down the framework into individual components, it's easier to see that each scene is a painstaking artwork comprised of the efforts of the camera crew, editors, technicians, directors, and actors. When you think about it, a  movie is a photograph in disguise. They both have an impact on the viewer. They can move you to tears, put a smile on your face, and capture your undivided attention. A movie can be a record-keeping tool as well. Documentaries are an example. They seek to provide the audience with factual information based on evidence that is without bias.

Now, I think I can understand a bit more of Barthes' dilemma. He wanted to define photography in itself, as opposed to the cinema. Is there a difference? What all photographs have in common is the fact that they certify the presence of the photographer. The same logic can be applied to a movie. The camera crew and director had to be present in the filming of a scene. So then, what is the difference? I'm not sure..

What I am certain about is that we can appreciate both photography and cinema. I love watching movies. There are certain movies that you can never get tired of rewatching. When I was young, in junior high school, I can without a doubt say that I watched Jurassic Park at least 87 times. I could cite the actors' lines. The special effects were amazing, and I really loved dinosaurs at the time. I think that photography and cinema go well together, hand in hand.