André Kertész – Master of Modern Photography

André Kertész was one of the most influential and celebrated photographers of the 20th century. He has been credited with pioneering the development of modern photography and was a major influence on the development of the art form. Kertész began his career as a photojournalist and was a prolific contributor to magazines such as Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and Life. His work is known for its innovative compositions and unique perspective on everyday life.

Early Life and Career

Kertész was born in Budapest, Hungary in 1894. As a young man he developed an interest in photography and began taking pictures of his hometown. In 1913, he sold his first photograph to the press and began a career as a freelance photographer. Kertész moved to Paris in 1925 and quickly established himself as a respected photographer. He was a member of the prestigious French photographic agency, VU.

Kertész’s most iconic images were taken during his time in Paris. His photographs of the city’s cafes, parks, and streets captured the spirit of the city and its people. He also photographed a number of famous figures of the era, including Pablo Picasso, Jean Cocteau, and Ernest Hemingway. Kertész’s photographs were characterized by their unique composition and angle, often taken from unusual perspectives.

Influence on Modern Photography

Kertész’s work had a profound influence on modern photography. He was one of the first photographers to experiment with abstract compositions and his use of unusual angles and perspectives has been echoed in the work of countless photographers. He was also an early adopter of the 35mm camera, which allowed him to capture images in a more spontaneous and intimate way.

Kertész’s work has been widely exhibited and has been the subject of numerous books and retrospectives. He was a recipient of the Guggenheim Fellowship, a Gold Medal from the Royal Photographic Society, and the French Legion of Honor. His work is now held in the collections of numerous museums, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York, the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris, and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.

Legacy

André Kertész left an indelible mark on the history of photography. His experimental compositions, innovative perspective, and unique style are still widely admired and influential. He is remembered as one of the great masters of modern photography and his work continues to inspire photographers to this day.