Wednesday, January 30, 2008

edward burtynsky



The second photographer that was featured was Edward Burthnsky. He did a whole series of photographs of China and their culture. This photographer, much like the last, was taking very raw contented pictures. Nothing was sugar coated or made to seem like it was much different than the reality. Even though both photographers were out to prove the same point of truth, Burtynsky effected me much less. I couldn't tell you why. Both hit on very important and active issues. Perhaps its that this effected me and hit hard but the war photos hit home. Being a friend and relative of many active military and veterans, it was just easier to relate to that message. Also, Burtynsky's view was more of things. He showed a lot of buildings and objects while previously it was more about people and emotion.

Wednesday, January 23, 2008

james nachtwey

the first photographer that i've gotten to experience is james nachtwey. the video of him talking lasted for about 20 minutes yet somehow had a time span of 20 years. amazing. i found that this video was one of the most honest views of the world. the kind of thing that makes people uncomfortable and emotional. the kind of thing that will make you think, evaluate, and in most cases re-evaluate life as you know it. the kind of thing that everyone should experience as often as possible. its the story thats doesn't have the happy ending, just the harsh reality. the most important kind of story. i feel that this kind of work is a thing a beauty. there is so much beauty that is found behind the horror and the pain. especially with the state of the world being as it is in the present. so much war. so many stories to be told. there is a great need for more realities like this. i believe that what is going on in the world is so often forgotten at home if its not directly affecting it. there is a kind of view that if its not in my face and making my day change then its not my problem. sad. or at least i think so.