"For me the camera is a sketch book, an instrument of intuition and spontaneity, the master of the instant which, in visual terms, questions and decides simultaneously. In order to “give a meaning” to the world, one has to feel involved in what one frames through the viewfinder. This attitude requires concentration, discipline of mind, sensitivity, and a sense of geometry. It is by economy of means that one arrives at simplicity of expression.
To take a photograph is to hold one’s breath when all faculties converge in a face of fleeing reality. It is at that moment that mastering an image becomes a great physical and intellectual joy.
To take a photograph means to recognize – simultaneously and within a fraction of a second– both the fact itself and the rigorous organisation of visually perceived forms that give it meaning.
It is putting one’s head, one’s eye, and one’s heart on the same axis."
Henri Cartier-Bresson was a french photographer. He is known for his candid style photographs. He is considered to be the father of modern photojournalism and helped develop the 'street photography' style.
He achieved his intimate photographs by wrapping black tape around his camera and hiding his camera with his handkerchief and pretending to blow his nose.
He also used fast black and white films and sharp lenses so he was able to photograph almost by stealth to capture the events.
I'm particularly interested in his work as I am looking at candid photography for my dissertation, investigating whether you can ever have a truly natural photograph.
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