When it comes to color photography, Saul Leiter is often credited with being the first photographer to dabble with the medium. However, while photographers such as William Eggleston, Joel Meyerowitz, and Martin Parr gradually made color photography more popular, there was another individual whose name is somewhat lesser-known in this genre: Fred Herzog. A contemporary of Leiter, Herzog went on to make thousands of color images, with his most popular work being his series based in Vancouver, Canada. Today, we take a look at what valuable lessons we can learn from the master of color photography.
On Authenticity
- Don’t Stage: In one of his interviews, Fred Herzog states how he takes pride in his images, which were shot as the scene unfolded. “You cannot stage pictures,” he said. “That is something I have many many times defended. People say ‘Well you can stage that.’ I say ‘No you cannot, and I can prove it to you.’ Many times over, I’ve taken a second shot after [some] kids have seen me, and nothing. It’s a different picture,” he added. From this, one can learn about the authenticity of the images and why that will add depth to your images. s.
- Content is the Key: “Photographic finesse has its place, but it can also get in the way,” Herzog once said. “I was trying to show vitality. The pictures are about content and more content. And if there is no content, take no picture.” Keeping this in mind, prioritize your narrative and the subject. What is it that you want to say? How will you say it? Think along these lines, and then you will create a more impactful image that offers depth.
- Extraordinary in the Ordinary: This is the beauty of Herzog’s images; the everyday scenes appear ethereal. “I take pride in saying these are all how we looked, not how we wanted to look, or staged…” he explains. “I call them a microcosm of American culture because that’s exactly what it is, of all the things we want to have,” While you look for the next best photograph, you should not shy away from looking at things around you. Sometimes, the mundane has the ability to offer unreal-looking scenes, which go beyond being pretty pictures, but capture the essence of the place.
On Street Photography
- Observation and Quickness: In another interview, Fred Herzog explained how he would make pictures: “I have to work fast and on impulse as I walk around the city with my hand-held 35-mm Leica camera. If you don’t trust your instincts, if you don’t trust your first vision, then you lose it.” What you learn from this is that being alert, observant, and quick on your feet are a few things that can go a long way. Sometimes, you may have to wait, but other times, if you lose the shot, it’s gone.
- Respect the Subjects: Herzog was always mindful of the people he photographed. He would never step on people’s toes but capture what he was seeing with dignity and understanding. This may mean you are asked not to photograph, and that’s okay. As disheartening as it could be, walk away. And if you are going to use the images for commercial purposes, it’s better to get their permission on a legal document.
On Using Color
- Embrace the Vibrancy of Color: Color is no longer what we once considered. In fact, taking a picture with brilliant color is a task in itself. All the elements and shades have to align in a beautiful harmony. So, color is the best way to practice your vision. A dash of color can make your images vivid and further help you enhance your storytelling.
- When to Use Black and White: It’s not that Herzog did not shoot black and white. He did so for a few years before he moved to using Kodak Ektachrome. However, those images do not hold you as strongly as his color work. So, when you are confused between mediums, remember that black and white can be used to suggest an idea, while color can be used to state how you feel.
On Timing and Technical Aspects
- Pay Attention to Timing and Light: Herzog was always particular about where the light was falling from, and the background in his images. These little details only further go to bring out the nuances of your image. Furthermore, if you are at the right place and time, the light will simply make your shot go from great to spectacular.
On Finding Your Unique Perspective
- Be Aware of Your Artistic Vision: “I was aware I was taking art,” said Herzog once. “That’s the conceit of young people. I knew that what I am doing is not only unique, but that someday I’m going to unpack that and shock people with it.” He did exactly that. Herzog was confident about his vision and nothing stopped him from achieving it. While success came to him later, when it did, it shook everyone. There was so much unconventionally and that could have only happened after you begin to build your creativity, without limiting yourself.
- Never Stop Exploring: One of the things we often do is give up when things aren’t going our way. Fred Herzog is a pretty great example of how one must be focused on their work, and continue to build their portfolio. despite what people say. Some may get success early, some may get it late, but when you do get that recognition, nothing can take it away form you. In a world that is focused on AI, many young people have the chance to stand out by using their experiences and human creativity.
Overall, these tips and suggestions are for you to understand and take what works best for you. As long as you trust yourself and the process, no one can beat you.
