This was an interesting topic that I hadn't thought that much about before, but it is an important part of how we get to see and learn about the Presidents. Photographic Presidents talked about the different types of photography and how we got to the digital age we now live in and its importance and how it made it easier and harder for presidents to be able to take photos at first because of how they had to stay so still.

Overall I did enjoy this book it was an incredibly quick read for a nonfiction book and didn't go overly in-depth about anything which is nice. I was expecting there to be more photos than there ended up being, but that was okay.
I did find the last chapter the most interesting because of how things had changed so rapidly from the 90s till the Obama presidency and how he put a new spin on things. I'm very interested now in seeing what the Biden white house is like when it comes to photos because we know what the Trump administration has been like and it's not been very nice.

If you want a quick read that helps you understand a little bit more about the media side of presidents this would be interesting for you.

After reading the description of this book, I expected a lot of photos and some explanations of how photography and seeing presidents changed over time. It actually is very in-depth and full of information about the photographers and their processes. The photos that are included are some I have never seen and are very interesting. This is an interesting and unique topic and is definitely suited for those interested in the history of photography.

**I received and voluntarily read an e-ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**

It's amazing to see how far photography has come, and to see it age alongside the history of American presidents and how the two seemed to influence one another is a fantastic combination.

Overall, the book was full of information, but it could read a little bit dry at times. This book would be great for any photography buff or history buff in your life.

A well written book if one is interested in photography and the history of photographs of presidents of America.
I did read it through, but found the lack of photos a drawback, but technically and historic it was interesting - as I did not realise the extent of changes within the photography industry, and the time progress from when it started.
Would be of interest to photographic students and practitioners.

For those interested in the history of photography and how it relates specifically to presidents, and how presidents became more "photographic"! I'm mainly only interested in photography and I still thought this book was quite interesting. Lots of information about the processes used, how presidents reacted and dealt with being photographed, and finally, the advent of social media and how that changed things.
A very in-depth look into all of this, while also getting a little insight into presidential personalities, in the small moments and in the big ones. Though for me particularly, some information was more interesting than others, I'm sure that anyone with these interests can find new facts and ideas from reading this!
There are photos scattered throughout, to highlight certain themes or moments, but not as many as I was expecting.
Thank you NetGalley and the University of Illinois Press for this e-ARC!

A very concise interesting book that covers aspects of photographic history as well as being of interest to history lovers on its own. Insights into some of the most powerful men in the world and how they and others used photography

As an archivist that often works with historic photos, I really enjoyed this book and the ways the author underscored the significance of photography in our understanding and remembrance of historic moments. I would recommend this to anyone interested in American or presidential history, and anyone working in a cultural heritage field.

A chronological study of the American presidents (beginning with George Washington!) in context of the ever developing world of photography. The author shares with us her love of history, photography, and presidential ephemera and keepsakes in this analysis of photography as a tool.

Chock full of photographs, this volume provides primary materials for us to examine; however is no TIME LIFE coffee table book to mindlessly browse. Generously peppered with descriptions of the prevailing portraiture tools, presidential perspectives and reactions to those tools, the author provides a detailed and compelling analysis,

Although the purpose of this study is historical, this book provides strong sociological commentary. Over time, these powerful men learn how to position their better side to confer a depiction of strength, health, and vitality. It’s clear that these powerful male figures also understand the power of the “male gaze” as they strictly forbid photography of their nubile female relatives.

This book is excellent as a narrowly focused history book. As is the case with the linear format of books, it’s difficult to relay the breadth of modern multimedia and the presidents who use them.

Notably lacking is any depiction and analysis of the former President Trump and his flat-footed relationship with photography.

Thanks for the opportunity to review an ARC NetGalley.

A fascinating look at the history of US presidential photography, from Washington to Obama. Finnegan thoroughly covers everything from daguerreotypes of paintings of the first presidents, to the Obama White House's Flickr stream. Will appeal to American history buffs, photography enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys a good nonfiction book.

This is a wonderful text that serves as an overlap between history and cultural theory, and using the idea of technology to explore the shifts in politics, culture, and the way we perceive leadership. Finnegan's focus on 'the photographable president' rather than 'presidential photography' is enough alone for a riveting discussion in a classroom, but also places this text on the frontline of contemporary historical study. Further, it is accessible to read, making it ideal for undergraduates and non-academics, but also for more seasoned folks as well. It is expertly researched and supported with a substantive source list and theoretical foundation.