On this post I will analyze the work of Yousuf Karsh, one of my references for my final photography. project. Karsh became popular for his portraits off politicians, artists and celebrities. He became one of the most renowned portrait photographers in history due to his skillful use of light and shadow and his natural ability to connect with his subjects. The dramatic use of light and shadow, emotional intensity, and meticulous attention to detail defined Yousuf Karsh's photographic approach. Significant elements of his approach and style include: Chiaroscuro Lighting and Intricate Posing ( Edelman, 2024).
Churchill portrait by Yousuf Karsh
“Churchill was chomping on a freshly lit cigar, when asked to get rid of it, he obstinately refused. So Karsh boldly stepped forward and plucked the cigar from Churchill’s mouth and took the picture. He always maintained that that stern expression, as Churchill glowers into the camera, was entirely the result of that snatching of the cigar.” (Shumard, 2018 cited by Nayeri, 2018).
On this portrait it is also possible to notice the use of Chiaroscuro. Albert Einstein is very clear and the main subject seems disconnected with the background. When it comes to lighting position is possible to notice that that the main light comes from the right side (on the viewers perspective) by looking to Einstein's forehead. Unlikely Churchill's portrait it is a mid close up shot and eye level angle. The composition of this portrait is quite interesting once Karsh explore the concept of triangles (the most noticeable one formed by Einstein's arms) and also the use of rule of thirds.
Evaluation: By analyzing Yousuf Karsh work, I intend to use some of the techniques used in my final work such as Chiaroscuro, intricate poses, low key lighting and the concept of triangles.
Reference List:
Nayeri, Farah. “Yousuf Karsh’s Portraits Evoke a Subject’s Inner Beauty (Published 2018).” The New York Times, 4 Dec. 2018, www.nytimes.com/2018/12/04/arts/yousuf-karsh-portraits-florida-show.html.
Edelman, Joe. “Yousuf Karsh: Capturing the Souls of Icons through the Lens.” Www.joeedelman.com, 3 Dec. 2023, www.joeedelman.com/yousuf-karsh. Accessed 2 Mar. 2024.
Bibliography:
Karsh, Y., 1962. In search of greatness: reflections of Yousuf Karsh. University of Toronto Press.
Bohn, K., 2006. 50 Principles of Composition in Photography: A Practical Guide to Seeing Photographically Through the Eyes of a Master Photographer. CCB Publishing
Karsh, Y. and Travis, D., 2009. Regarding Heroes. David R. Godine Publisher..
Sonnekus, M.N., 1991. The art of people photography (Doctoral dissertation, Bloemfontein: Central University of Technology, Free State).
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