I love how Seydou Keita’s images use the formality of 19th century bourgeoisie portraiture in an unmistakably African setting. He’s regarded as the father of African photography, and his work continues to inspire a new generation of photographers who aim to capture the diversity and richness of African life.
There’s a lot of admire about Salgado. He left a promising career as an economist to chase his dream of being a photographer. He lived with his subjects, traveling to far corners of the world, and putting himself in harm’s way. He obviously loves and cares about the people he meets and brings his understanding of economics and how the world works to his assignments.
Nick Knight may well be the most creative fashion image-maker there is. There’s something very British about his work – it mixes both punk and old-world elegance. He’s the Alexander McQueen of photography (or maybe Alexander McQueen was the Nick Knight of fashion?).
I remember vividly when I first saw Nadav Kander’s work: I was a young art buyer at BBDO New York when his agent came to show us his books. Bill was a great agent, but Kander’s photographs didn’t need any selling.
I love photographer Javier Vallhonrat’s approach to color – it’s very painterly and makes me think of Impressionism.
Photographer Nan Goldin’s images are not always easy to face. They show hardship, violence and pain. But they also, and more importantly, show life – the good, the bad, and the ugly of it.
Photographer Jean-Loup Sieff captured the who’s who of fashionable Paris (and years later, me!).
Photographer Tyler Mitchell’s subjects, be they models or everyday people, are effortlessly cool, like only cool 19-year-olds know how to be. They play with gender roles and pay no mind to what people may think of their clothes or skin color. Mitchell shows us moments when being young and alive is all that matters.
Throughout his life and career, photographer Gordon Parks held an unflinching mirror to America and fought for civil rights and social justice. Photographer, filmmaker, writer, musician… he was a true Renaissance man and led an extraordinary life!
You immediately know you’re looking at photographer Tim Walker’s work when you see it. I find his images eminently British, referencing old-world grandeur and fairytales. I think the world can use more of those, don’t you?