Photography video: John Szarkowski
In this photography video Graeme Williams explores Szarkowski’s influential role in photography.
John Szarkowski: The Visionary Who Shaped How We See Photographs
In the realm of photography, few figures have had as profound an impact as John Szarkowski. From 1962 to 1991, Szarkowski served as the Director of Photography at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York, where he wielded immense influence over which photographs were displayed. His tenure transformed the field, championing the works of iconic photographers like Garry Winogrand, Diane Arbus, and Lee Friedlander. For three decades, Szarkowski’s vision dominated the medium, shaping public perception and appreciation of photographic art. One of Szarkowski’s lasting contributions to photography is his classic book, “Looking at Photographs”. In this seminal work, he selected 100 images from MoMA’s collection, pairing each with a thoughtful essay. This book serves as a masterclass in photographic interpretation and remains essential reading for photography students and enthusiasts alike. It provides an insightful exploration of how photographs communicate and resonate with viewers. More information about this classsic book here.
Photographer Graeme Williams explores Szarkowski’s influential role in the video below. Williams delves into Szarkowski’s impact on 20th-century photography. Williams’ YouTube channel is a treasure trove of discussions on various aspects of photography, covering art, documentary, and photojournalism. We thoroughly recommend it. You can find it here.
His conversations with photographers and artists reveal the intricate relationship between their work and their inner and outer worlds.
As a photographer himself, Graeme Williams brings a wealth of experience to these discussions. He has photographed in over 50 countries for renowned publications like National Geographic, Time, The New York Times, and Newsweek. His work has been exhibited in solo shows in New York, London, and Paris, showcasing his deep understanding of the photographic medium.