Shocking Cognoscenti

America had created a myth for itself.

Gee, I use a big word in that title. Just in case if you don’t know what congnoscenti is, I’ll tell you. It has to do with know-it-alls. You see photographer Robert Frank shocked them with his spontaneous photographs  that he shot all across the United States.

Frank caught America’s desperation; his images cast long shadows over the American spirit. In his book The Americans, he takes on social and racial indifference–an America that just doesn’t care about equality.

Frank’s photographs are now on display (till Aug. 25 at SFMOMA). If you have even a little bit of interest in the middle of the last century don’t miss this quintessential American photo show.

Blog Review Monday

There’s an excellent article about what lenses to use for street photography here. The article also details various approaches for shooting on the street.

The author says that a 50 mm Canon 1.4 is a great lens for street photography. I can agree with that.

He also says set your camera to ISO 800 during daylight street photography. You won’t get noise, yet the camera will take a quick shot.

Last, he says don’t use a lens cap (get a UV protector instead) because you don’t want to be fumbling around with that when you want a fast shot.

Really, this is a great article, a must for any street photographers.

Great Review for My Book from Top Amazon Reviewer

See Review from #3 Amazon Reviewer

Check this out!

Iran or Bust

Iran flag

There’s a great photo blog put out by the New York Times. Today, there’s an image of President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad of Iran kissing a baby with flower petals swirling in the air. If I only could be in Iran to get such a photograph.

For some people getting into Iran can be tough. Even if you have the necessary  visa and passport, the government officials can deny you entry. You also may have a tough time getting out. This is what the state department says. Who knows if it’s accurate.

The two places I would like to photograph most–Cuba and Iran–are tough spots. Perhaps one day I’ll get to either or both of them.