Cartier Bresson

Henri Cartier-Bresson (August 22, 1908 – August 3, 2004) was a French photographer and was considered the master of candid photography, and was an early user of 35 mm film. He helped develop street photography and his work has influenced many photographers. 

When Henri Cartier-Bresson would shoot on the streets, he would stay as low-key and unobtrusive as he could. I even read that he would cover his chrome Leica in black tape and even sometimes with a hankerchief to make it less noticeable when he was out shooting. Most of the images that he captured his subjects were oblivious of the camera, and thus truly candid.

Bresson was a master at taking photos of children in their natural playful state, children are great subjects to shoot when it comes to street photography. Most don’t mind being in front of the camera, and often ignore it. Therefore you are able to capture their true behaviour playful, curious, and often mischievous.

Bresson applied geometry to his images poetically. If you look at the composition of his images he integrated vertical, horizontal, and diagonal lines, curves, shadows, triangles, circles, and squares to his advantage. He also paid particular attention to how he framed the image.

My own photos

My first photo is an interpretation of Bresson’s approach brought up to date, although the mono image is a nod to his era of photography. A lone man stands stationary amid the hustle and bustle of Manchester Piccadilly train station; and he interacts with nothing but his smart phone. The vertical and horizontal lines of the tiles in this image are a very Bressonisque feature, as is the framing of the subject and the fact that it was taken from above. 

The second image is in colour, and utilises motion blur to add a sense of urgency and action to those around my stationary subject; adding to the realisation that this is an interchange not a destination.