Where portraits are concerned smart people always seem more interested in what goes on in a photographer's mind instead of just what kind of gear the photographer is using. Here is a 13 minute video in which renowned South African photographer, Nadav Kander, talks about how he approaches the art of portraiture. It's a calm and compelling piece.
In a sentence? It's more emotion than logic. I think you'll enjoy this.
Very interesting to hear his approach. Similar in some ways to to Kirk Tuck method. It was sad to see his face when he talked about the loss he felt when he turned to digital equipment.
ReplyDeleteI agree. We lost some of the things that made photography seem so special to us.
DeleteThe magic of the image coming up in the tray of developer is what it was all about. The uncertainty until the image appeared and the joy of a good frame..............
DeleteThose who have never experienced the darkroom will never comprehend.
Thanks for this, Kirk.
Wonderful. Thanks for posting that Kirk.
ReplyDeleteI saw this earlier today and thought there was a contrast with how you have described your approach, particularly with regard to getting to know and engaging with the subject. I was hoping you might comment on that.
ReplyDeleteEverybody does it differently... He's quieter. I'm more engaged. I think it all depends on the subject.
ReplyDeleteWow, thank you so much for posting this. What a fantastic video, a couple of things stood out to me, the first, his results (and therefore one can assume goals) are not visually like Kirk's therefore that their methods are different is no surprise.
ReplyDeleteBut I LOVED the bit at the end, where he talks about the nervous energy and experimentation of film, and how it remains until the end, while digital and "getting the shot" dissolves that energy leaving one cold for the remainder of the shoot.
Brilliant, and thanks again.
Ab
Wonderful insight. Very interesting how 'artists' can have very different approaches to photography, and all produce magnificent results. I guess we need to find the style that works best for each of us.
ReplyDeleteKirk - thanks a lot for sharing this; it's always great to listen to someone as thoughtful. I second Ab's point, the comment he made which rang true for me the most was the point the nervousness associated with shooting with film, and how that keeps you on edge, and keeps you much sharper in terms of awareness and ability.
ReplyDeleteCool one Kirk. But I'm not half as attractive as him, so I have to talk to anyone I photograph...
ReplyDelete