W. Eugene Smith was an American Photojournalist who would take countless hours, days, to get the perfect photo. No matter if he had a deadline or something he refused to comprise his work just to satisfy anyone but himself. He is most known for his vivid WWII photos.
So I decided to to show you a softer side to Smith than the more rough a rugged photos he has out there. I find the photo on the left very stunning and beautiful. This photo reveals love and care of two small children. I think it is kind out of Smith's comfort zone to capture a photo like this, but still he makes it look so effortless no matter what he is shooting.
I especially like the contrast of this photo and how it is dark around the edges then light in the middle. To me this represents hardships and that there is light at the end of the tunnel in no matter a person is going through in life.
Perhaps Smiths most notable work is Tomoko Uemura in Her Bath. This was taken in Japan at the time where many youngsters were suffering from Minamata Disease caused by the discharge of heavy metals from the Chiso Factory. A year after Smith and his wife were there he was attacked by factory workers in order to stop taking such damning photos.
Drugs and alcohol led Smith to a massive stroke and he died in 1978. Another interesting fact about Smith is his Manhattan loft where he took photos and made recordings of Jazz musicians.
Know the photo on the top right is what Smith is most known for, which is photos of WWII. Although this photo isn't to graphic I like the stillness to it. The shades of gray and black are on point and I am sure it took him a while to get this photo how he wanted. To be able to capture the dog in that position is amazing and shows the patience it takes to get a great photo.
Thanks for a great post.
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