Magnum Photos

dictionary

Apr 12

A highly esteemed international photographic cooperative, established in 1947 by four pioneering photographers - Robert Capa, Henri Cartier-Bresson, George Rodger, and David "Chim" Seymour. The agency is globally renowned for its extensive range of photographic styles, including photojournalism, documentary, and fine art photography, representing the work of a distinguished roster of photographers. These photographers maintain their individual artistic autonomy while contributing to a collective archive and participating in a cooperative business structure. Magnum Photos Agency is distinguished by its commitment to preserving photographers' copyright, ensuring creative control, and promoting high-quality, impactful images that capture significant moments in history, culture, and the human experience. The agency's collaborative ethos and dedication to excellence have made it a leading force in the world of photography for over seven decades.

Magnum Photographers:

Featured

Ernst Haas

“Bored with obvious reality, I find my fascination in transforming it into a subjective point of view.”

Josef Koudelka

“I prefer people to look at my pictures and invent their own stories.”

Abbas Attar

“My photography is a reflection, which comes to life in action and leads to meditation.”

Thomas Hoepker

“A photo can be more than just a picture. It can be a piece of history.”

Alec Soth

"I believe in the basic notion that the world is infinitely interesting."

Christopher Anderson

"The camera is just a tool; the real magic happens when the photographer can find the humanity in their subjects."

Harry Gruyaert

"I'm not interested in images that show something. I'm interested in images that feel something."

William Eugene Smith

“The photographer must bear the responsibility for his work and its effect.”

Steve McCurry

"If you wait, people will forget your camera and the soul will drift up into view."

Bieke Depoorter

"The more time you spend with people, the more they trust you, and the more they show who they really are."

Jonas Bendiksen

“Editing is as important as the actual photographing.”

Martin Parr

“All photography is propaganda.”

Elliott Erwitt

"Photography is not rocket science. Essentially you buy the camera and follow the instructions on the box.”

Robert Capa

"If your photographs aren't good enough, you're not close enough"

Henri Cartier-Bresson

“Your first 10,000 photographs are your worst.”

Do you have a better definition? Share it in the comments.

Martin Kaninsky

Martin is the creator of About Photography Blog. With over 15 years of experience as a practicing photographer, Martin’s approach focuses on photography as an art form, emphasizing the stories behind the images rather than concentrating on gear.

Magnum Photos

Magnum Photographers:

Schneider and Rodenstock

Gamma

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