Timeless photography lessons from Robert Frank

Welcome to another video and today we're taking lessons from "The Americans" by Robert Frank and have a look at how important his photography and this photobook were in the context of the 1950s.
Thank you so much for watching & supporting the channel!

Links to my work

Books Mentioned

More on Robert Frank

Footage
WWII
1950s America
American South
Las Vegas

Music
Release Me by Junior Kimbrough
Covered by Big Wilson & Matt Lindsay
2021

Video Breakdown
00:00 - Intro
03:58 - Sucking a sad poem right out of America
07:41 - A note on Robert Frank's style
10:44 - Lesson one - composition has no rules
12:45 - Lesson two - there's photos everywhere
13: 20 - Lesson three - Don't be afraid to edit your photos
14: 03 - Book Recommendation
14:55 - Conclusions

Copyright disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act of 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research.

Under this guidance, I’ve created content which is guided towards the education, celebration and promotion of said photographs and photographers who have contributed immensely to the art of photography.

An effort is made by the presenter, verbally and through the usage of links (in the video’s description) to encourage the audience to explore the work presented beyond the video and engage with said content through books, articles and relevant links to each photographer’s own social media.

Therefore, I believe the inclusion of said images, footage and other sources can overall add depth and appreciation for the subject of the video whilst also enriching the visuals and dynamics of the it. All within what is within the fair use scope and YouTube’s policies.

“As an artist today I somehow feel that you have to be enraged. I mean, besides the intuition I had and how the country affected me, I also didn’t want to produce what everybody else was producing.”
Robert Frank

[avcle]

I highly recommend “Drive” by Andrew Bush. He rigged a camera to his passenger-side window on his car and would photograph ordinary people driving in their cars. One of my favorite books. I would also love to see you review “Alone Street” from Gregory Crewdson.

[josephheroun]

Beyond your always insightful narrative, the art direction of your presentation is impressive. Typography, sound, pacing. Your productions stand out.

[varonosnet]

One of my favorite. I did a video myself about Robert Frank and the way he approached the book and photography in general amazed me. I think there is always something more to learn from these photographers.

[brianwilsonperkins]

So great to wactch again, yes Robert Frank its incredible, i show a few days ago, a documentary about hes latest photography work, wher he draw, paint, film in 8mm and 16mm...super fresh, just an humble recomendation.
thanks for create and share this videos, are also super fresh format.

[merseberger]

The Americans - one of my absolutely favourite photobooks. Thank you for sharing your thoughts on Robert Frank and his great work. Very interesting!!

[andrehoffbauer]

Yet again an inspiring dive into great books and the story and impact of its creators. Thank you for investigating and illustrating it in your distintive way I really became fond of over the last two years.

[sbai]

Thank you so much for this video. Robert Frank is a major inspiration for me. The magic of The Americans is a deeply personal experience. I love it so much, I gave a copy to a very dear friend. Thoroughly recommended!

[cinesthesia]

Loved this one so much, my friend. I've watched it twice. In the time that I have been homeless I've been welcomed into homes that all share one specific thing; This book has been on all their bookshelves. And has been inspiring for me to find my way with a special project. And now this. Thank you!

[christopherward]

I loved this period of photography. The framing of a narrative where our eyes could roam over an image. The camera as extension of the eye that consumed a moment as it consumed the photographer and as the photographer was energised by the newness of what they were encountering, the framing on film created a distillation of the encounter. When I view these images the narrative is all in my head, based on my life experiences and use of the medium and it’s trappings. The 35mm camera was cool because, it could go anywhere and be in the moment without necessarily changing that moment, by requiring anything to be arranged to accommodate it. I get that sensation of a human eye and body moving through a space and the framing puts me there and little cues of juxtaposition, perspective, tone and contrast, motion blur, depth of focus etc, give me an experience of seeing like Frank. The images are a catalyst for contemplation of time and place. Great book. You also like another favourite of mine Salgado. He is the photographic equivalent to magical realist writing. His work is tirelessly intriguing in its ability to stop time and draw me out of the present. Spectacular!

[ashton]

I love what you do T. Hopper. This stuff is important.

[danielss]

Hey, I really appreciate you for making this. its the photo history I've been wanting. Please keep making these !

[CatalinGulan]

I've just discovered your Youtube Channel Tatiana..It is simply awesome! Great work! Thank you very much for sharing your knowledge and thoughts by making great movies!

[davidrbanta]

Your videos are well done, informative, to the point and just the right length to hold one's attention...great job!

[cohocton]

I love all of your videos, but this is probably my most favorite because of the subject photographer and the three lessons provided. Thank you!

[Barzyz]

Tatiana, another great video, these are always getting better. Based on this video I purchased Frank's Americans and it was really enjoyable. Thanks for the great content!

[jhawarrohit]

Thanks for taking the time to inspire us, this is beautiful :)

[valhallafallen]

Remarkable work. A refreshing and new point of view from this photogrpher. Thank you!!!!

[rolf_siggaard]

Many thank for this. Some great insights and advice. Really appreciate your work.

[ericpit]

I gad that I found Your channel. I do love listen You talking about my love subject Photography! Thank you for your work

[terrylstarks]

Really Really Really loved this!!! You are truly a great talent!! I’m looking forward to this series, but then again I look forward to all your videos!!!! Thanks!!!!