Untitled (parents and two small children posed on stairs in church near mantel lined with candles) 1954

Editor: Here we have an untitled photograph by Martin Schweig, showing a family posed in a church. The stark lighting creates such a fascinating contrast. What do you notice about the composition? Curator: The photographer uses the church interior as a formal framing device. Note how the receding lines of the stairs and the symmetry of the altar create a structured space, almost a stage, for the family. Editor: It does feel very staged. I wonder if that was common? Curator: Indeed. The formality in their clothing—the cut of the suit, the patterns of the dresses—contributes to this impression. Observe also how the photographer’s placement of the subjects manipulates our gaze. What do you make of that? Editor: I didn't notice that before. Thanks!