What goals did the Photo-Secession have for photography?

The primary goal of the Photo-Secession was to establish photography as a recognized fine art. Founded in 1902 by Alfred Stieglitz and including members such as Edward Steichen, the group sought to differentiate itself from conventional, purely scientific or documentary approaches to the medium.12

To achieve this, the group embraced Pictorialism, an approach that prioritized aesthetic expression, tonality, and composition over the simple documentation of reality. Their specific goals and methods included:3

• Artistic Manipulation: Many members used specialized printing techniques—such as gum-bichromate and bromoil—and manipulated negatives to create soft, atmospheric effects that resembled drawings, etchings, or paintings.12
• Promotion and Exhibition: The group actively promoted their vision through the journal Camera Work and the Little Galleries of the Photo-Secession ("291"), which provided a dedicated space to exhibit photography alongside other modern art forms.12
• Evolution of Standards: Over time, the group’s focus shifted; while they initially favored manipulated imagery, many members eventually moved toward "straight" photography, valuing the unique, inherent qualities of the medium rather than imitating other art forms.2