Humanistic photography as an anthropological tool: new forms of social interaction and reality

Abstract. In the modern world, where visual information dominates, photography not only captures moments of life but also becomes an active participant in social processes, serving as a tool for community building, idea dissemination, and identity creation. The purpose of the article. This article aims to provide a comprehensive characteristic of humanistic photography as an anthropological tool in the digital era, focusing on new forms of social interaction and reality. The results. The study identifies that visualization has become an integral part of contemporary culture, with photography playing a pivotal role in the transformation of social and cultural processes. Conceptual approaches to photography as a means of creating new realities are analyzed, referencing the philosophical works of V. Flusser, M. McLuhan, and P. Virilio. Particular attention is paid to the role of photography in shaping visual anthropology and exploring evolving processes of cultural identity. The findings indicate that digital technologies significantly enhance the capabilities of photography for social interaction, facilitating access to global dialogue. Photography emerges not only as a means of documenting reality but also as a platform for cultural exchange and understanding the dynamic changes within society. The scientific novelty. The scientific novelty of the research lies in defining humanistic photography as a tool for analyzing social, cultural, and existential aspects in the digital era. A new approach is proposed for understanding photography as a form of visual expression of individual and collective experience, as well as examining the interconnections between technology, personality, and society. Conclusions. The findings confirm that humanistic photography provides a deeper understanding of sociocultural processes in the digital era, contributing to the development of new methods for studying social reality. It also forms the basis for exploring not only external changes but also internal anthropological interrelations among culture, technology, and individuality. The results make a significant contribution to understanding modern photography as a phenomenon that shapes new forms of social interaction and anthropological practices, revealing the humanistic potential of this art form in the digital era.