Henri Cartier-Bresson

Henri Cartier-Bresson developed a strong fascination with painting early on, and particularly with Surrealism.

after spending a year in the Ivory Coast in 1932, he discovered the Leica - his camera of choice - and his passion for photography was introduced.

He explained his approach to photography in these terms: '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. ... It is by economy of means that one arrives at simplicity of expression.'

To me, this says that even though photography is a very practical way of showing thoughts and emotions, it gets a message accross as equally as a book might show it. However, unlike in a book, you decide what happens in that picture. 

On the right are a few pictures I really liked taken by Bresson.

I really like this photograph because it is very focused and has a very good gradient lighting. The black and white effect seems like it is actually the colour of the setting. I also like the contrast in lighting, textures, and colours.

I really like this picture because of the shadows and clearity in the theme. As bresson believed in catching the moment i belive that this picture is one of the finest examples of his work.

In photography, the smallest thing can be a great subject. The little, human detail can become a Leitmotiv.

 

The most difficult thing for me is a portrait. You have to try and put your camera between the skin of a person and his shirt.




The photograph itself doesn't interest me. I want only to capture a minute part of reality.



Think about the photo before and after, never during. The secret is to take your time. You mustn't go too fast. The subject must forget about you. Then, however, you must be very quick.