Final answer:
Photography influenced Impressionism by prompting artists to find new forms of expression beyond realistic representation, inspiring the use of light, color, and brushwork that reflected the fleeting moments of modern life.
Step-by-step explanation:
The advent of photography influenced the development of Impressionism in several fundamental ways. Initially, photography challenged traditional art by its ability to reproduce reality swiftly and accurately, prompting artists to seek new avenues of expression. Instead of competing with photography for representational accuracy, Impressionists focused on conveying their perceptions of nature and modern life. They strove to represent the sensation or 'impression' of a moment, particularly capturing light and its ephemeral qualities. Furthermore, with the practical advances in photography, such as the faster speed, better resolution, and enhanced permanence, Impressionists were encouraged to experiment with different styles, such as the snapshot-like qualities observed in their paintings.
Photography's technological progress mirrored the transformative currents in society, with innovations such as paint tubes that allowed for plein air painting, directly influencing the methods and subjects of Impressionist artists. These artists also embraced the snapshot effect in their work, akin to the candid, transitory visuals that photography could capture. Hence, the camera's impact helped to shape the distinctive characteristics of Impressionist art, including the use of light, color, and spontaneous brushwork, to reflect the dynamic spirit of modernity.