One of my long time admired photographers is Steve McCurry. I love the way he composes his images and how he works with the available light to create the drama that his pictures have.

Last week The Sartorialist published an interview in 5 parts that they did with him. The interview is structured more like a chat between two friends where they discuss McCurry’s photography and ways of working. It is different to other interviews/presentations I have seen where he explains his photographs only. It is definitely worth watching/listening and I will do it again soon.

For me the most interesting part was when he explains his approach to a work day photographing and how he finds his subjects. The key points I took with me are:

– He starts in the morning and works outside as long as there is good light. If the light is too harsh he moves indoors or looks for places in the shade.
– He works with a fixer that can translate for him, knows the place and knows how/when to get out if it becomes dangerous.
– He approaches strangers when he finds them interesting. If the light is not good he asks them if they have time to move to another place. If they do not have he asks them if it is possible to meet another time or if he can walk with them and maybe they will find a better place.

Here is the interview, enjoy:

Steve McCurry, the Sartorialist interview part1
Steve McCurry, the Sartorialist interview part2
Steve McCurry, the Sartorialist interview part3
Steve McCurry, the Sartorialist interview part4
Steve McCurra, the Sartorialist interview part5

I got his newest book (Steve McCurry: The iconic photographs) as Christmas present. I can also recommend it to everybody.