Steve McCurry’s work continues to inspire; while doing TAOP, I had reviewed his work in the context of beautiful use of both composition and color. In context of P&P, his work continues to inspire. For the last two years, I have just been puzzling over how he manages to take such compelling images especially with regard to color. His images are wonderfully powerful. The colors are vivid.
I wish I could attend a workshop with him just to see him in action; The closest I got was through viewing a short film “Close up:Photographers at Work”; From what I can gather that a lot of his iconic images were shot on slide film although the short film did show him shooting with digital film. I found it amazing that he carried around such a large camera for street photography and no one seemed to notice him. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NLgd6isBAoM)
Recently I has the chance to view some of the photographs that are in featured in his new book “Steve McCurry: The Iconic Photographs” and I continue to be overwhelmingly impressed. Here are some of my current favorites (I just seem to be adding to one more to my collection of images everything)
I also spent some time watching his one master class series which can be found on:
Some of the tips that I picked up:
- Don’t’ forget to say hello; connect with the subject
- Be in the Moment – take the time out to get the sense of the place / street. Look at the architecture, at the people, take some time out to get to know the place. Photograph alone or with one person so that you can focus on your surroundings and not get distracted. Photography is really a solitary endeavor; it gives you the opportunity to explore
- Humor goes a long way – when approaching people on the street, you need to try to connect with them; show respect.
- React Quickly – seize the moment; follow your instincts;
- How to fit on street – This relates to when you go to a foreign country; go with a guide; somebody who knows the culture; this way you are able to gauge what happenings and is watching your back. It also belps to build a sense of confidence and ensure you don’t culturally disrespect people.
- What makes a great photograph – Good composition and color but the main thing is that it should have some story telling or have some element that you can’t forget. Pictures that stay with you and change your viewpoint about the world.
- Follow your nose – a good photographer needs to have a strong sense of curiosity about the world; go with your instinct; be ready to explore
- Pick an Unusual Vantage – try and find different viewpoints to shoot from; high / low etc.
Some of recent favorites:
