The world of photography is made up of many different styles. Each one different than the next, but all connected by an artistic thread. The key is to find one (or more) that speak to you as an artist. I personally tend to lean towards street (candid) photography more often than usual. Although I enjoy experimenting from time to time.
Picture this: It's mid-afternoon and you're aimlessly walking around the city. No destination in mind, only your instincts to guide you. Your eyes notice the homeless man sitting on the sidewalk, asking for spare change. The young girl, who's riding her bike in circles, making sure to stay inside the imaginary lines her parents told her about. Your attention is then drawn towards the birds in the sky, as they play in the sun light above you.
These are all spontaneous moments that can not be orchestrated, only captured. This technique is best known as The Decisive Moment. A technique made famous by French photographer, Henri Cartier-Bresson. Known for sitting on locations for hours, only to walk away with two or three pictures. Patience was his greatest friend, as well as life itself. At times he would even hide his camera from the view of his subjects, to make it as natural as possible. This method of work is what led him to be known as the Godfather of Street Photography. While researching his work, I came across an interesting fact: Henri was a big fan of the 50mm lens. Most of his work was done using this specific lens.
That fact alone brought me to the presence of fellow artist and good friend of mines, Dante Luna. Around that time we were working on The Samurai Exhibit project, and I was aware he has been using a 50mm lens. After a small talk, we both agreed to switch lenses for 48 hours. He would use my 18-55mm and in return I would use his 50mm. I wanted to see the world through the eyes of Henri himself. So, I did.
(To view this project CLICK HERE)
No comments:
Post a Comment