For all things photography, documentaries offer a unique look into the lives and work of iconic photographers. They reveal the stories behind their most famous images and the people who captured them. Here is a list of seven fascinating photography documentaries that every photographer should watch.
This video, by Tatiana Hopper, lists seven compelling documentaries that photographers should watch. Some of the standout documentaries include:
Sally Mann: A Thousand Border Crossings
This documentary takes viewers into the world of Sally Mann, known for her evocative portraits and landscapes. The film explores her artistic journey, focusing on how her personal experiences and the landscapes of the South shaped her work. The film delves into Mann’s unique approach to capturing themes like family, memory, and death, making it a must-see for anyone interested in the emotional depth of photography.
Salt of the Earth
Directed by Wim Wenders and Juliano Ribeiro Salgado, this film chronicles the career of Sebastião Salgado, a Brazilian photographer known for his powerful images of social and environmental issues. The documentary not only showcases Salgado’s powerful imagery, but also discusses his efforts to document and raise awareness of the lives of minority communities around the world. This is an inspiring film for anyone passionate about the potential of photography to promote change.
All the beauty and the bloodshed
Nan Goldin’s work is known for its honest and intimate portrayal of the human experience, and this documentary offers a deeper look into her life and activism. The film looks at her influential role in the AIDS crisis and her ongoing fight against the opioid epidemic. The film is a profound exploration of how photography can be a tool for social justice and personal expression. This is an incredibly powerful and at times painful documentary.
To explore more about these films and other recommendations, watch the full video for an inside look at the world of photography through the eyes of these extraordinary artists.
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