Photography is more than just an art form—it’s a powerful visual language that shapes the way we see the world. Originally presented at the 13th International Conference on Thinking in Sweden, this compelling talk has since been delivered over 40 times across the globe.

Exploring the intersection of storytelling and imagery, it reveals how iconic photographs influence human thought, much like great literature. Some of these ten powerful images will be familiar, but all invite a deeper look—challenging us to question what we see and what we are being asked to believe.

About the presenter

Gerard majored in English Language and Literature at the University of Qld and is currently a relief teacher in Toowoomba. He joined the Toowoomba Photographic Society in 1982 and is now a life member.  His interest in photography was sparked by a comment made by a fellow teacher in his first year of teaching in Mackay. On joining the Toowoomba Photographic Society, Gerard met iconic Toowoomba photographer, Graham Burstow, who showed him there was more to a photograph than being a visual record but a whole new language and way of communicating.