Professional photography in the context of the modern society's culture

The article attempts to systematically analyze the phenomenon of photography. The work contains a comprehensive study of this type of art as a phenomenon of artistic culture. The stages of photography’s development from the moment of its emergence to the modern technological developments are considered. The varieties and genres of this art form are analyzed, the functions of photography and the degree of its influence on socio-cultural processes in society are presented, including in the light of the active spread of digital technologies. Conclusion dwells upon the fact that the development of this type of art corresponds to the tendencies that are characteristic of any particular period in the history of artistic culture. Thus, the evolution of photography allows to talk about its different forms - traditional, avant-garde, modernist and postmodernist. Significance of art photography for modern culture and art is examined. Competencies of a professional photographer are described. It is emphasized that modern photographic art combines the features of tradition and innovation.