Joel Sternfeld

As well as regularly completing the exercises, I would also like to make time to take a look at photographers work. My tutor kindly suggested some particular photographers of interest and I am aiming to take a look at them all.

The first is Joel Sternfeld who is well known  for his documentary photographs of the U.S. I have taken a look at two of his collections When It Changed (2007) and First Pictures which was taken between 1917 and 1980. I chose these two as they link well with the course and because I find them particularly interesting and inspiring.

When It Changed.

This contains close up portraits of delegates who were debating global warming at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Montreal in 2005.

 

 

I just love the range of expressions that have been captured, you can almost guess what is being said. These range from looks of concern, interest, concentration, and my favourite which would have to be the gentleman who fell asleep.

First Pictures.

This series depicts the travels of a young artist as he takes in beaches and busy streets. I have selected some of my favourites from the collection.

I chose these particular images as they show a certain sense of humour. I like that you can express some of your own personality while capturing the lives of others. The use of colour is also what draws me to these photos.

I am now considering my options for the second assignment and feel particularly inspired. It is interesting to see two very different styles from the same photographer.