In what way did Cindy Sherman alter the perception of portrait photography?

Cindy Sherman altered the perception of portrait photography primarily by using it as a means to critique social issues. Her work often involves creating elaborate, staged scenes that reflect and challenge societal norms, stereotypes, and the constructs of identity, particularly regarding gender and femininity. Through her photographs, she comments on the roles women play in society and the influences of media and popular culture.

By assuming various identities and roles herself in these portraits, Sherman invites viewers to question the authenticity of the personas they encounter, both in her artwork and in everyday life. This approach moves beyond traditional portraiture, which often aims to capture individual likenesses, instead prompting a critical examination of the narratives surrounding identity and representation.

The other responses reflect more limited or specific interpretations of her work that do not encompass the broader critique of social issues that she addresses.