Virtual Photography, also known as in-game photography or screenshot art, has become an increasingly prominent practice that empowers players to capture and share their gaming experiences in stunning visual narratives. This unique form of creative expression grants gamers greater agency over their gaming encounters, allowing them to produce paratexts and tell stories of the virtual worlds they enjoy. Beyond individual creativity, Virtual Photography also offers a valuable lens through which to observe the production, distribution, and reception in the video gaming industry. As I continue my journey into the world of Virtual Photography, I realise how this artistic medium has become an essential aspect of experiencing video game texts.
What is Virtual Photography?
Virtual photography, also known as in-game photography or screenshot art, is a creative practice in which individuals use virtual environments and video games to capture and create stunning and artistic images. It involves using the built-in photo mode or camera tools within video games to compose and capture screenshots that resemble real-world photography.
Unlike traditional photography, virtual photography takes place within the digital realm of video games. Photographers use the game’s graphics engine, various camera angles, filters, and other tools provided by the game developers to capture scenes and moments within the game world. These virtual photographers often leverage their skills in composition, lighting, and post-processing techniques to produce captivating and visually appealing images.
Virtual photography has become increasingly popular due to the growing quality and realism of modern video games, which often feature detailed and expansive virtual worlds that allow for stunning imagery. It has also found a thriving community on social media platforms where virtual photographers can share their work and exchange tips and tricks.
Agency and Paratext
My fascination with Virtual Photography began during my playthrough of Horizon Zero Dawn. Initially, I dismissed the photo mode as a trivial feature, but as someone with a passion for visual media, I soon found myself enamored by this creative tool. Virtual Photography was no longer just a means to take snapshots; it became a way to further immerse myself in the game world and tell my own stories through stunning visuals.
The practice of Virtual Photography is still relatively niche, but it has gained significant attention from both gamers and game developers alike. Many modern game releases now come equipped with sophisticated photo mode, representing a
shift towards more participatory and player-centered game development.
By harnessing the power of photo mode tools and in-game cameras, players can become visual storytellers, capturing breathtaking moments, and creating stunning compositions within virtual environments. This process allows gamers to curate their experiences, offering unique perspectives that go beyond the prescribed narratives provided by the game developers.
One of the most captivating aspects of Virtual Photography is the sense of agency it grants to players. Through the lens of their cameras, players can craft their own narratives, emphasise their favorite characters and settings, and document their personal journeys within the game. These screenshots, or paratexts, become a powerful means of expression and sharing, allowing players to showcase their creativity and interpretations of the game’s world and lore.
VP as a Participatory Media Culture
What's your favourite armour set? I'm in the mood to collect some 👕#HorizonForbiddenWest #HFW #VirtualPhotography #VPRT #WorldofVP #VPGamers #BeyondTheHorizon #PS5share @Guerrilla pic.twitter.com/BAa8hxdfYL
— Jalhvir 🎮📸 (@jalhvir) November 11, 2022
Eager to share my virtual photography creations, I first turned to Instagram. However, I soon realised that the Virtual Photography community thrived on Twitter (and Reddit). Through regular postings and the strategic use of hashtags, I began to build a small following and found immense joy in scrolling through other photographers’ works.
Observing the diverse approaches to Virtual Photography on social media was a fascinating experience. For Virtual Photographers, capturing and sharing screenshots of their gaming experiences has become more than a hobby; it has become a requirement to fully experience and appreciate the gaming text. The Virtual Photography community is a perfect example of participatory media culture, where members go beyond simply consuming video game texts to actively producing media surrounding their gaming experiences.
In this vibrant community, social bonds are formed as members interact, share knowledge, and collaborate on creative projects. There is also a hierarchy of popularity and expertise, with some accounts gaining more followers and recognition for their exceptional work. The culture of knowledge sharing is prevalent, with experienced Virtual Photographers generously offering tips and tricks to help others achieve the best results with their Virtual Photography.
Immortalising Gaming Experiences through Virtual Photography
Similar to taking a selfie to commemorate time spent with friends, Virtual Photography serves as a means to record and recall my gaming adventures. Video game narratives can be intricate and lengthy, making it easy to forget crucial details over time. By capturing screenshots, I can revisit and cherish plot points, memorable questlines, and the breathtaking locations I’ve explored.
Certain games even provide the feature to geotag screenshots on the in-game map, making it reminiscent of flipping through a travel photo album, evoking memories of specific moments in the game.
Embracing Virtual Photography as a Passion and Research Interest
My love for Virtual Photography has grown so deep that I plan to study it extensively as part of my upcoming netnographic case study for my PhD research. Focusing on the characters Aloy from the Horizon series and V from Cyberpunk 2077, I aim to explore the hardware, software, content, advertising, and gaming communities in-text and via the paratexts created through virtual photography shared on Twitter and Reddit.
Throughout my research, I will argue that these virtual photography creations have contributed to shaping and curating the online persona of these characters, reflecting the engagement and creativity of the game’s audience.