Elliott Erwitt I Photographer's Profiles

Summary

This video celebrates the life and work of photographer Elliot Erwitt, known as 'the photographer of life'. It explores his journey from a teenage interest in silent-era actor Lon Chaney to becoming a renowned photographer. Erwitt's ability to capture the essence of humanity, from humor to tragedy, is highlighted. The video also discusses his professional development, his work with Magnum Photos, and his iconic photos of influential figures and everyday scenes. It concludes with a reflection on the significance of photography and Erwitt's enduring influence.

Takeaways

• 🎭 Eliot Erwitt's work is compared to Lon Chaney's, capturing the essence of humanity in its many forms.
• 📸 Erwitt's interest in photography began at a young age and developed into a lifelong career and hobby.
• 📷 He saw his camera as an extension of himself, always documenting life's moments.
• 🌍 Erwitt's photography captures the complexity of life, reflecting his love for his craft and appreciation for his surroundings.
• 📚 His work includes books on dogs, which have become popular and somewhat define his public image.
• 🤝 Erwitt's career was influenced by established photographers like Robert Capa and Roy Stryker.
• 🏆 He joined Magnum Photos at the age of 25, which significantly impacted his career trajectory.
• 🌟 His photography is characterized by a unique ability to capture a wide range of subjects, from world leaders to everyday scenes.
• 📹 Erwitt's work behind the scenes of films like 'The Misfits' provides a unique perspective on Hollywood.
• 📈 The lesson from Erwitt's work is to cultivate a deep relationship with the camera as an extension of one's own perspective.
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Q & A

What was the initial spark for the narrator's interest in Lon Chaney?

The narrator developed an interest in Lon Chaney due to his ability to play any role and capture the essence of characters from the most innocent to the most barbaric during the silent era.

How did Elliot Erwitt's approach to photography reflect his view on humanity?

Elliot Erwitt captured the essence of humanity, from humor to tragedy, and despite this, he remained marveled by human existence and our nature.

What was the turning point for Elliot Erwitt's career as a photographer?

Elliot Erwitt's career took a significant turn when he joined the Magnum Photos agency at the invitation of Robert Capa at the age of 25.

What was Elliot Erwitt's first camera and how did it influence his career?

Elliot Erwitt's first camera was a plate camera that he purchased at the age of 15, which started as a hobby and eventually developed into a professional career.

What type of camera and lens did Elliot Erwitt favor in his work?

Elliot Erwitt favored a Leica M3 camera paired with a 50mm lens and occasionally a 90mm lens for his photography.

What were the types of films Elliot Erwitt predominantly used?

Elliot Erwitt mostly used Ilford HP5 and Kodak's Tri-X films, which contributed to the contrast and grainy style of his images.

How did Elliot Erwitt's family background influence his early life?

Elliot Erwitt's family moved from Russia to the United States when he was 10, which provided him the opportunity to learn photography and filmmaking in a new environment.

What significant event in 1932 inspired Elliot Erwitt?

The photograph taken by Henri Cartier-Bresson at the Gare Saint-Lazare in Paris in 1932 was a revelation for Elliot Erwitt, influencing his approach to photography.

What was the common thread in the subjects Elliot Erwitt photographed?

Elliot Erwitt photographed a wide range of subjects, from political figures to everyday people and dogs, capturing the many roles and facets of life.

What was Elliot Erwitt's philosophy towards his work and life?

Elliot Erwitt had a serious approach to not being serious, capturing life's complexity with a quirky and humorous perspective.

How did Elliot Erwitt's work with dogs reflect his personality?

Elliot Erwitt's fondness for photographing dogs, as they don't object to being photographed and don't ask for prints, reflects his humorous and unpretentious personality.