The Brian Lehrer Show 100 Years of 100 Things: Street Photography
Apr 22, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Sam Barzilay, creative director and co-founder of Photoville, explores the evolution of street photography over the last century. He reflects on the impact of the Leica camera, which revolutionized capturing life's decisive moments. The conversation delves into the significance of iconic photographers like Diane Arbus and the narratives of marginalized communities in New York. Barzilay also examines how smartphone technology is reshaping the art form, addressing both its accessibility and challenges, while promoting upcoming exhibitions celebrating this vibrant genre.
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Leica's Impact on Street Photography
- The Leica 35mm camera revolutionized photography, making street photography possible by enabling handheld use and capturing spontaneous moments.
- This technological leap allowed photographers to focus on lighting, geometry, and unexpected instances, differentiating street photography from documentary storytelling.
Andrei Kertes' Early Street Photos
- Andrei Kertes was an early pioneer who used the first Leicas in 1920s Paris but initially struggled for recognition.
- His work laid the foundation for street photography, inspiring future generations despite early skepticism.
Cartier-Bresson's Decisive Moment
- Henri Cartier-Bresson popularized street photography with the concept of the 'decisive moment' using a small Leica camera.
- He emphasized disappearing as the photographer to capture spontaneous moments that tell a rich story.
