Everybody Street was quite an interesting watch. I don’t think I’ve seen a movie so focused on photographers that displayed their pictures for the majority of the movie. I’ve never been to New York, but this movie really highlighted why it’s great place for photographers and their craft. Different individuals focused on the dark realities there, like drug addicts and gang members. Others tried to take more uplifting photos of people smiling or various members of the community. One segment that was particularly interesting to watch was the opinions on whether digital photography is valid to be a “real” photographer. Some claimed that it’s too easy and everyone can do it now, so it’s not as special or raw. Others said it doesn’t matter because a picture is a picture, and why not have someone find their love for it through digital means? I understand why some think film is the way to go, but I am personally grateful for digital photography. I don’t have much experience, but I now take better pictures than I ever thought I could.
One quote that stood out to me was from Elliot Erwitt: “I get the feeling that there are too many bad pictures in the world, but there’s always room for good ones” (42:30). I love his outlook because that’s how I feel about art. I believe it should be used to make people happy and bring joy during rough times. There are so many terrible things going on, why not use photographs and paintings to make people smile? I understand the need for realism and the portrayal of tragedies, but my job as an artist is to show the good things like Erwitt does. Others like him focused on the smaller beautiful subjects that people may overlook, like graffitied trains rolling by. This movie has taught me to find the beauty in everything and that photography is important to our lives. Capturing everyday moments or the ones that change history are both so valuable. I hope that one day I can take the photo that changes someone’s life.
Pics With Tivs 