portrait of this blog's author - by Stephen Blackman 2008

Wednesday, October 02, 2024

Saul Leiter -


A favourite photographer along with peers William Klein and the expressionist master, Robert Frank we have looked at him before and this shot above is not typical IMHO. Some of his work is more clearly urban juxtapositions and a magical use of colour and composition
 

"Saul Leiter, an influential figure in the world of photography, made significant contributions to the art form during the mid-20th century. Born on December 3, 1923, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Leiter began his career as a painter but soon turned to photography, embracing its potential as a medium for artistic expression. His work gained recognition for its unique ability to blend abstraction with the everyday world.


In 1957, Leiter captured one of his most iconic images, which perfectly exemplifies his style. Featuring a rain-soaked New York City street, the photograph showcases a dog amidst the reflections and vibrant colours of the city. This image encapsulates Leiter's talent for finding beauty in simplicity, highlighting his keen eye for composition and colour. He often used the interplay of light, shadow, and colour to create dreamy, impressionistic scenes that invite viewers to explore their own interpretations.


Leiter was part of the New York School of photographers, which included luminaries such as Robert Frank and William Klein. However, his approach differed from his contemporaries, as he favoured softer images that often blurred the line between abstraction and realism. His work remained largely under appreciated during his lifetime, but he gained recognition in the 1990s as a pioneering figure in colour photography.


One of Leiter's significant contributions to photography was his early use of colour film, which was unconventional at the time. He often used reflections and layered compositions to create visually striking images that evoked emotion and thought. His photographs are characterised by their intimate portrayal of everyday life, showcasing the beauty of the mundane.


Saul Leiter passed away on November 26, 2013, but his legacy lives on through his timeless images that continue to inspire photographers and artists around the world."


#SaulLeiter #Photography #StreetPhotography #ColorPhotography #NewYorkCity #Art #VisualStorytelling #SimpleIsBeautiful #Dog #Rain

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