If the viewer has only seen some of Adams' work reproduced in posters and prints, these original photographs can be extremely impressive and magnetizing. Some of them seem larger than life, and they all show the incredible detail and lighting that mark all of Adams' work. It is difficult not to imagine how long the photographer waited to get just the right light, just the right angle, and just the right exposure to create these works of art, and it is hard to be inspired as you view these classic images of some of the most beautiful spots in America. The exhibit calls Adams a "populist hero" who inspired others to enjoy and advocate for America's National Parks. Adams was always very open about his use of "Photogenia" in his photos, he manipulated them in the darkroom to gain the maximum effect of light and shadow in his finished works. These embellished images brought parts of America to light for people who might never have the chance to visit them in person, and helped many people appreciate...

In that, Adams could really be considered a photojournalist, because he manipulated his images in order to convey his message of beauty and serenity, while encouraging others to save and treasure our National Parks. Thus, he was more than an artist simply sharing his works with others, he was a driven and dedicated journalist, who hoped to change the way at least some people viewed the natural world with his works. In fact, it seems as if his function was to "integrate man, to reassure him" that wild places like Yosemite and New Mexico existed, and would always exist with humans' help and support. In this, his photographic message becomes much more clear and relevant. Ansel Adams work created understanding and awareness in generations of Americans, and it is right to regard it as a national treasure.
References

.Barthes, Roland. "The Photographic Message." Image, Music, Text. Trans. Stephen Heath. New York: Hill and Wang, 1977. 15-31.