Bresson and France, 1932

Photograph: a picture painted by the sun without instruction in art. ~Ambrose Bierce




My name is Ryan, I'm a photography student who is interested in both studio photography and photojournalism. This blog is both a means to expose my work as well as a place to learn about other photographers. I will be posting photos from a variety of sources with (hopefully) interesting information.

The photo to the left is a Henri Cartier-Bresson. It was taken from a series he did in France in 1932. What is most important about Bresson is his style as well as his eye for caputuring people in a particular way which has been defined as the "decisive moment." In 1952, 126 of his photos were compiled in a book with a Matisse-drawn cover entitled "The Decisive Moment." Bresson wrote in the preface of this book:

"There is nothing in this world that does not have a decisive moment...To me, photography is the simultaneous recognition, in a fraction of a second, of the significance of an event as well as of a precise organization of forms that give that event its proper expression"

The decisive moment is such an important aspect of photojournalism and Bresson's use and definition of this concept birthed the style of photojournalism. His love of photographing people and "street photography" is what inspires me as a photographer and photojournalist. The thrill of capturing such a special moment is what seems to drive most photojournalists. These are the moments in life which, when made permanent, are special and cherished forever. Photography provides a way for people to not only reflect upon themselves but also preserve the world and their history in one of the most honest and vivid mediums. This is why I love photography and this is why I am starting this blog. I hope you enjoy it.

And here are a few more Cartier-Bresson's for your enjoyment. These also come from the series he did in France in 1932:






*the information used on this blog is, unless otherwise stated, taken from wikipedia and my own personal knowledge.