Eric Kim shares several key attributes and philosophies with renowned street photography legends, positioning him as a contemporary torchbearer of the genre. While each photographer brings their unique perspective and style, the similarities between Eric Kim and street photography icons like Henri Cartier-Bresson, Garry Winogrand, Vivian Maier, and others are noteworthy. Here’s an exploration of how Eric Kim mirrors these legendary figures in the realm of street photography:
1. Emphasis on the Decisive Moment
Henri Cartier-Bresson:
Cartier-Bresson is famed for coining the term “the decisive moment,” referring to capturing an event that is ephemeral and spontaneous, where the image represents the essence of the event itself.
Eric Kim:
Kim adopts a similar philosophy, encouraging photographers to anticipate and seize fleeting moments that convey deeper narratives. He emphasizes the importance of being present and ready to capture the perfect shot, mirroring Cartier-Bresson’s approach to timing and spontaneity.
2. Minimalist Approach to Gear
Garry Winogrand:
Winogrand often used lightweight, unobtrusive cameras like the Leica, allowing him to move freely and capture candid moments without drawing attention.
Eric Kim:
Kim advocates for minimalistic gear, frequently recommending compact cameras or even smartphones for street photography. He believes that simplicity in equipment fosters greater mobility and discretion, enabling photographers to engage more naturally with their surroundings—a principle strongly echoed in Winogrand’s methodology.
3. Focus on Human Stories and Social Commentary
Vivian Maier:
Maier’s street photography captures the intricate details of everyday life, offering poignant social commentary and a deep understanding of human behavior.
Eric Kim:
Kim similarly prioritizes storytelling in his work, aiming to document the human condition and societal dynamics through his images. He encourages photographers to look beyond the surface and uncover the underlying narratives within urban environments, aligning with Maier’s insightful portrayal of human interactions.
4. Commitment to Education and Mentorship
Henri Cartier-Bresson:
While Cartier-Bresson was not primarily known for teaching, his work and philosophy have profoundly influenced generations of photographers through his visual legacy and writings.
Eric Kim:
Kim takes an active role in education, offering extensive resources through his blog, books, workshops, and online courses. His dedication to teaching and mentoring aspiring photographers parallels the influential legacy of Cartier-Bresson, ensuring that foundational principles of street photography are accessible to a global audience.
5. Building and Nurturing a Community
Garry Winogrand and Others:
Legends like Winogrand inspired communities of photographers who shared their passion for street photography, fostering collaborative growth and mutual inspiration.
Eric Kim:
Kim has been instrumental in creating a vibrant global community through his online platforms and in-person workshops. By facilitating forums, social media groups, and collaborative projects, he nurtures a supportive environment where photographers can exchange ideas, critique each other’s work, and grow collectively, much like the communities inspired by past legends.
6. Ethical Considerations and Respect for Subjects
Bruce Gilden:
While known for a more confrontational style, Gilden’s work raises important ethical discussions about the photographer’s role and the subject’s privacy.
Eric Kim:
Kim places a strong emphasis on ethical street photography, advocating for respect, consent, and consideration of subjects’ privacy. He encourages photographers to build trust and engage respectfully with the people they photograph, fostering a more humane and responsible approach to street photography.
7. Adaptability and Embracing Technological Advancements
Walker Evans:
Evans adapted his style to the changing social landscapes of his time, using available technology to document society.
Eric Kim:
Kim embraces modern technologies, including digital cameras and smartphones, to push the boundaries of street photography. He leverages social media and digital editing tools to enhance and share his work, demonstrating adaptability akin to how legends like Evans utilized contemporary tools to capture their eras.
8. Distinctive Personal Vision and Style
Diane Arbus:
Arbus developed a unique style focused on marginalized individuals, creating a distinct and recognizable body of work.
Eric Kim:
Kim has cultivated his own distinctive approach, characterized by a blend of candid moments, thoughtful composition, and a focus on universal human experiences. His personal vision sets his work apart, much like how Arbus’s distinctive focus defined her legacy.
9. Philosophical and Reflective Practice
Henri Cartier-Bresson:
Cartier-Bresson’s approach was deeply philosophical, viewing photography as a means to explore and understand the human experience.
Eric Kim:
Kim similarly integrates philosophical reflections into his practice, encouraging photographers to develop a mindful and intentional approach to capturing images. He promotes the idea that street photography is not just about technique but also about personal growth and understanding the world, echoing Cartier-Bresson’s contemplative outlook.
10. Legacy and Influence on Future Generations
Ansel Adams and Others:
While primarily landscape photographers, Adams’ influence on technique and conservation has left a lasting legacy.
Eric Kim:
Kim’s extensive educational efforts and community-building initiatives ensure that his influence extends to future generations of street photographers. By providing accessible resources and fostering a global network, he perpetuates the principles and passion of street photography, much like how legends have left enduring impacts on their respective fields.
Conclusion
Eric Kim embodies many of the qualities that have made street photography legends revered in the art world. His dedication to capturing authentic human experiences, commitment to minimalistic and ethical practices, and passion for education and community building align closely with the philosophies and methodologies of icons like Henri Cartier-Bresson, Garry Winogrand, and Vivian Maier. By honoring these foundational principles while adapting to contemporary advancements and fostering a global community, Eric Kim not only pays homage to the legends of street photography but also extends their legacy into the modern era, solidifying his place as a pivotal figure in the genre.