Influential photographers
Alfred was born in New Jersey in the year 1864 and undertook engineering training in Germany. He developed interest in photography and painting, when he returned to America in 1890. He believed in the aesthetic value of the published work by the photographers. As a member of the New York Camera Club, he advocated information sharing, professionalization of the work and publications. However, he left the club due to pressure from other members who did not believe in h the editorial policy he championed. Together with his colleagues, they formed the ‘Photo-Secession’ journal. The new journal viewed photography as a craft. Alfred came up with a series of photographs under the theme of Equivalents. During the last years of his life, he focused on running his gallery, as his health deteriorated. “Looking Northwest from the Shelton” remain he greatest achievements ever (Met museum, 1).George Hurrell
George Hurrell was a respected photographer in the film and entertainment circle. He is credited with making momentous contributions to the development of Hollywood’s photographic industry (Postrel, 151). Most of the images of glamour by Hollywood between 1930s and 1940s are credited to him. He was born in Ohio. Initially, he studied painting but later developed interest in painting. The journey to becoming an accomplished photographer began when he decided to keep the records of his paintings in photograph forms. However, the monetary gain from the photography made him switch from painting. George initially worked as a professional photographer for Actor Novarro before working for Norma Shearer, an actress. He later joined MGM Studios as the head of photography before leaving in 1938 to form the Sunset Boulevard Studio. He became very famous among the stars and became very popular. Most of his works are in display in various museums and galleries in different countries. He did a documentary outlining his life, achievements, challenges and what he believed in. He passed on in May 1992 from bladder cancer.Comparison of Alfred Stieglitz and George Hurrell
I chose Alfred because of his unique styles and ability to combine photography work and literature. He was a gifted person who edited a journal, the Camera Notes. He believed in storage of information and knowledge sharing. Similarly, I chose George because of an almost similar conviction. George began his work by taking pictures of his painting and developed them as records. While Alfred edited photography journal, George focused on building a professional career, from a business perspective, as he opened a studio in Los Angeles.
Works Cited
Metmesuem. Alfred Stieglitz (1864–1946) and American Photography. 2000. Web. 17 Nov.
2014. <http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/stgp/hd_stgp.htm> .
Postrel, Virginia. "Starlight and Shadow", The Atlantic. 2009. Print.
