Learning from other photographers offers insights beyond simply observing their images. Exploring their philosophies, methods, and personal approaches can directly improve your own creative practice and perspective.
Coming to you from Peter Forsgård, this insightful video emphasizes why understanding a photographer’s philosophy matters as much as appreciating their work visually. Forsgård introduces Daido Moriyama, whose unconventional stance that emotional authenticity trumps technical perfection challenges conventional ideas. Forsgård values Moriyama's fearless approach, urging you to photograph whatever captures your attention without self-censorship. Moriyama sees photography as fundamentally democratic, free from rigid standards. Forsgård himself adopts Moriyama's spontaneous practice as a warm-up method, highlighting how freely experimenting can open doors to deeper creativity.
Forsgård also highlights Saul Leiter, whose pioneering use of color in street photography defied norms at a time dominated by black-and-white imagery. Leiter focused on emotion rather than technical precision, deliberately leaving images "unfinished" to stimulate viewers' imagination. Forsgård underscores the value of Leiter's strategy of creating visuals that provoke thought and curiosity rather than merely presenting straightforward scenes. Forsgård then discusses Gary Winogrand's rapid, instinctual shooting style, noting how Winogrand deliberately distanced himself from immediate feedback by delaying film development. This practice offers you a compelling approach to evaluating your own work objectively, reducing the influence of momentary excitement or personal attachment.
Lee Friedlander’s approach, according to Forsgård, encourages you to reconsider the ordinary and mundane as potential subjects worth documenting repeatedly. Forsgård appreciates Friedlander's series on hotel-room televisions, an example of transforming everyday scenes into a compelling narrative through repetition. Forsgård suggests applying this mindset to your daily environment—capturing the seemingly insignificant repeatedly can eventually reveal compelling insights and patterns.
Melissa O’Shaughnessy, another photographer Forsgård highlights, reinforces the concept of openness and attentiveness in creative practice. Forsgård emphasizes O'Shaughnessy’s advice that clarity and openness of heart are crucial to noticing unique photographic opportunities. Her journey, starting photography later in life, also inspires Forsgård’s viewers to understand that age or past circumstances do not limit your creative potential.
Lastly, Forsgård turns to Mary Ellen Mark’s documentary-style photography, noting her intensive engagement and ethical approach to subjects. Mark's dedication to building genuine connections underscores the significance of emotional depth and sincerity in creating meaningful work. Forsgård encourages adopting her mindset of genuinely caring about the subjects you photograph, which significantly enriches the emotional impact and authenticity of your work. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Forsgård.
