Steve McCurry
When we gaze upon an iconic (or even just a really good) photograph, it’s difficult to think about the work or the passion behind it – we are seeing a documented scene or a crafted image and–unless you are a photographer–most people don’t wonder about the individual who was behind the camera. Sure, the majority of the populace will automatically recognize the photo of the Afghan Girl that was on the cover of National Geographic, but if you said the name “Steve McCurry” would the everyday person have any idea who you were talking about?
Photographer Tim Mantoani is setting out to change this with an ambitious project: He is photographing well known photographers with their most iconic, famous, or favorite photographs. He has collected 150 of these riveting portraits in a recent book – Behind Photographs: Archiving Photographic Legends.
Not only is he contacting and documenting these famous photographers, but he is also challenging his own photographical prowess by shooting on the legendary 20×24 Polaroid camera. These cameras are practically extinct (2 in existence), and the film goes for about $200 dollars a pop – per FRAME.
Click through the gallery tabs above to see a selection of this work.
Added his book to my Amazon Wishlist. This is a really moving post, I’m excited to learn more from these photographer’s work. Thanks Chase.
This is more of a personal message than a response to your iconic photographers page, but here I go… So it’s late 2012. I’m on this amazing trajectory. I’d hacked the system, photographed my Olympic medal winning buddy and a bunch of his Olympic medal winning buddies. My first exhibition was at Red Bull’s head offices in London in 2012. I got accreditation to shoot the London 2012 Paralympic Games. I had my first magazine cover on the day of my birthday. A hot shot ad agent bought my work. I got interviewed twice on BBC radio. I exhibited at the oxo gallery, which I didn’t even know fucking existed, but is like 5 mins walk from the tate modern. Then a week after hanging my exhibition at a global accountancy firm’s London headquarters, I got a chest infection, developed septicaemia, got put into a coma for four days, and almost died. 18 months later I’m picking up the pieces. Chase you’re an inspiration. I’m in danger of defaulting back to some middle of the road humdrum approach. You’ve reminded me why I’m here. Funnily enough it was that first Olympic medal winning buddy who signposted me to you. Thank you. You rock. Call me sometime. 00447939077336. I double dog dare you. I’ve got so much to give and I need a kick. Kick me.
Epic photos!
Great website. Plenty of helpful information here. I’m sending it to several buddies ans also sharing in delicious. And obviously, thanks in your sweat!
Chase, why are you not on this list?! If you were, what picture would you choose?