Finding the local (meta)picture

Abstract

This visual essay reveals the potential of metapictures to induce perceptions of physical material environments influencing or supporting a photograph’s content. The contextually reflective attribute of metapictures is articulated through a case of finding found photographs nearby, then within a flea market in Hong Kong, and then sharing the results. Through describing the process of finding photos on a broken digital camera, a critical reading of the camera’s display by the junk seller underscores a lack of prescribed value for the depictions within the photo. Localizing such value to the dissemination between the Hong Kong neighbourhood, pictured content, and bodily gesture suggests found metapictures’ value as contextually reflective artifacts.

DISCLOSURE STATEMENT

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Marty Miller

Marty Miller is a visual studies and technology researcher at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University. His work investigates how image creation practices adapt to the distribution of emergent imaging technology. Specifically, found photos and technological literacy fuel his scholarly output, funded creative work, and integrated teaching practice.