Doctored: The Medicine of Photography in Nineteenth-Century America

Delve into the captivating intersection of medicine and photography in 19th-century America with Tanya Sheehan's groundbreaking book, "Doctored: The Medicine of Photography in Nineteenth-Century America." This illustrated paperback, published by Penn State University Press in 2013, offers a fresh and insightful perspective on how these seemingly disparate fields influenced each other during a pivotal period in American history. Sheehan masterfully argues that medical models and metaphors played a crucial role in bolstering the professional standing of Philadelphia's burgeoning commercial photography scene, particularly in the aftermath of the Civil War. During this era, photography was still establishing its place in society and lacked the widespread recognition it enjoys today. "Doctored" meticulously examines how photographers strategically adopted medical language and practices to enhance their credibility and legitimize their craft. Beyond simply tracing the adoption of medical terminology, Sheehan delves into the tangible material practices of both portrait photography and medicine. She explores how the layout and operations of urban portrait studios mirrored medical spaces, creating an environment where the act of being photographed was imbued with a sense of scientific precision and authority. The book sheds light on the subtle yet powerful ways in which photographers cultivated a "clinical" atmosphere, influencing how sitters perceived themselves and the photographic process. Drawing upon trade literature, advertisements, and visual analysis, "Doctored" reconstructs the rich tapestry of photographic and medical culture in postbellum Philadelphia. Sheehan reveals how photographers presented themselves as diagnosticians of character, using lighting and posing to reveal inner truths and capture the "essence" of their subjects. This approach resonated with prevalent medical theories of the time, which emphasized the importance of external appearances in diagnosing internal states. Furthermore, "Doctored" considers the physical and social implications of studio work. Sheehan examines the potential health hazards faced by photographers and sitters alike, including exposure to toxic chemicals and the psychological effects of prolonged posing. By acknowledging these less glamorous aspects of the photographic process, she offers a more nuanced and complete picture of the era. Tanya Sheehan's interdisciplinary approach, integrating methods from social art history, science studies, and media studies, makes "Doctored" a truly innovative and thought-provoking work. It not only illuminates the historical relationship between photography and medicine but also raises broader questions about the construction of professional identities and the cultural power of visual representation. Scholars and enthusiasts of photography, medical history, American studies, and visual culture will find "Doctored" an indispensable resource. Discover how the camera became a tool for diagnosing not just physical ailments, but also the very soul of a nation in transition. This illustrated edition brings the era to life, making it a compelling and visually rich journey through the past. The book contains 216 pages and weighs 431 grams. The ISBN-13 is 9780271037936 and the ISBN-10 is 0271037938. Get your copy today!