War Photographer
Documentary film by Christian Frei about war photojournalist James Nachtwey
imdb link found here
Bob and I had come across Odd Obsession Movies on Milwaukee Ave. after returning the rental car needed post accident. We walked around the store looking for something interesting to watch. Then I came across the documentary film section and picked this one up. Seemed interesting just by reading the title (for obvious photography reasons). Then I read the description. That moved me. So we rented it and I just finished.
Watching James Nachtwey at work was very inspiring. Not because of the excitement and "romanticism" I sometimes imagine from being a photojournalist. James Nachtwey is inspiring because he believes he has a responsibility as a photographer. While watching the film, a quote from one of the many photography teachers I've had rang in my ears, "It is your responsibility when taking someone's photograph to respect that person and provide dignity, no matter what the situation." James Nachtwey holds this true.
I admire the fact that he tries to communicate a message that the subjects, being photographed, may not have the opportunity to perform. He feels the social responsibility to let the world know the true story of history occurring. AND most moving to me...he stated that if he feels his career is advancing or succeeding by exploiting others' situations, then he has sold his soul. He constantly reminds himself of his responsibility as a photographer...then the latter doesn't have to occur.
If you haven't watched this...for those photographers that read this...I highly recommend you do. Very inspiring...and it reminds me that my life has an effect in this world and I have to take that responsibility seriously.
Documentary film by Christian Frei about war photojournalist James Nachtwey
imdb link found here
Bob and I had come across Odd Obsession Movies on Milwaukee Ave. after returning the rental car needed post accident. We walked around the store looking for something interesting to watch. Then I came across the documentary film section and picked this one up. Seemed interesting just by reading the title (for obvious photography reasons). Then I read the description. That moved me. So we rented it and I just finished.
Watching James Nachtwey at work was very inspiring. Not because of the excitement and "romanticism" I sometimes imagine from being a photojournalist. James Nachtwey is inspiring because he believes he has a responsibility as a photographer. While watching the film, a quote from one of the many photography teachers I've had rang in my ears, "It is your responsibility when taking someone's photograph to respect that person and provide dignity, no matter what the situation." James Nachtwey holds this true.
I admire the fact that he tries to communicate a message that the subjects, being photographed, may not have the opportunity to perform. He feels the social responsibility to let the world know the true story of history occurring. AND most moving to me...he stated that if he feels his career is advancing or succeeding by exploiting others' situations, then he has sold his soul. He constantly reminds himself of his responsibility as a photographer...then the latter doesn't have to occur.
If you haven't watched this...for those photographers that read this...I highly recommend you do. Very inspiring...and it reminds me that my life has an effect in this world and I have to take that responsibility seriously.
1 comments:
that sounds like an excellent movie. I might have to rent it. I love documentaries...I'm such a nerd. :P
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