STREET PHOTOTOGRAPHY - SHOW & TELL EPISODE 4, HALLOWEEN SPECIAL: JOEL STERNFELD VS GREGORY CREWDSON

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  • čas přidán 28. 10. 2022
  • Episode 4 of SHOW & TELL is a creepy, terror filled Halloween Special in which writer and photographer Stephen Leslie pits two famous American big name photographers against each other, throwing them in to a proverbial pit to see who comes out on top. So today its Joel Sternfeld vs Gregory Crewdson. See if you can guess which one Stephen thinks is the dog's bollocks and which one he thinks is just bollocks. Big clue, the one with the best hair, in this case, is the real deal.
    This week's episode also considers images by William Eggleston, Jeff Mermelstein (again), Aaron Berger, Diane Arbus (again), Helen Levitt (again), Robert Frank and Walker Evans but amazingly no Louis Faurer. However it does also include a variety of cheap props and yet more corny jokes.
    Please subscribe to the channel and Stephen will continue doing these films as he seeks to focus on photography content and not just which new or old camera to buy.
    For more of Stephen's photography please visit his website: www.stephenleslie.co.uk/ or his Instagram: / step_hen_le. . or sign up for the mailing list for his new book, MOSTLY FALSE REPORTS: tinyurl.com/6uyy3vsf Or just feel free to send him money.
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Komentáře • 192

  • @createtechreviews4282
    @createtechreviews4282 Před rokem +3

    Seriously, your videos and comentary are fantastic! I have seen Zap's work featured by other photography CZcams channels, but I never connected with them and did not know why, until now. "Empty" hit the nail on the head for me.

  • @irvb9881
    @irvb9881 Před rokem +2

    Found your channel via Andy Adams’ Flakphoto email newsletter - just after watching a few of Crewdson’s recent videos and thinking “this isn’t real, it’s not for me”.

  • @frame-lines
    @frame-lines Před rokem +1

    I like your point about Sternfield keeping his distance from the elephant. Including the cop car with the open door, suggesting danger makes it all the more interesting. 'Whats the sheriff going to do to the elephant?' is what I take from that photo. Great episode! -Shane

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem +1

      I was going to add that sometimes his photography looks like the most amazing screen grab from Google maps street view. But I forgot.

  • @JJ_Photo
    @JJ_Photo Před rokem +4

    Ok, this channel is already becoming my favorite CZcams photography channel... Thank you, from one bald guy to another!

  • @_stefkas_
    @_stefkas_ Před rokem +2

    You say this so well. Seen one Crewdson pic, you get the drift- he just keeps on drifting along. And I always envy the lives of people like Joel S. and many others who just seem to be again and again be kissed by serendipity and luck to be granted to really encounter the places and moments these images could be taken in. Imagine the thrill of finding these pictures and compare it to the crude (crewd ?) force of large-set-producing "artificially weird" photos... Thanks for wrapping this up for me !

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem +1

      Thanks for watching, I'm glad you like the video. Joel Sternfeld's luck is hard earned (and apparently he also used to use a police scanner.....) New video just gone up, please take a look.

  • @danicee
    @danicee Před rokem +1

    Was hoping more people would share Halloween photos so I’m happy you decided to share some. And you’re right, a lot of people are just wearing costumes, not channeling a vibe of eeriness/creepiness.

  • @roberthein4052
    @roberthein4052 Před rokem +1

    Spot on with the Zap critique - have been tired of eye rolling at each mention of his "fabulous allegorical American angst a la cinema''....keep up the great work.

  • @bhadriverduzco5923
    @bhadriverduzco5923 Před rokem +2

    Another insightful and entertaining episode Stephen. Well done

  • @virtualBob1
    @virtualBob1 Před rokem +2

    I almost stopped he video when you started showing Crewdson. I follow him on IG but find most of his work a repetitive yawn, so yes I agree with that you are saying.

  • @12qwas12as
    @12qwas12as Před rokem +2

    Great again. One small regret: Zap gets all the attention as we engage in our hard
    wired negative bias. I can’t get enough Sternfeld.

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem +1

      JS gets the cover photo though….

    • @12qwas12as
      @12qwas12as Před rokem +1

      @@stephenlesliephoto Indeed. Was thinking of the discussion more than the video…. We gravitate toward the negative as a species.

    • @12qwas12as
      @12qwas12as Před rokem

      @@stephenlesliephoto Maybe a look at Jeff Wall, some day, who also stages?

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem

      @@12qwas12as I will keep him in mind - although I've got loads more films to do first! Thanks for the suggestion though, maybe I'll get round to him eventually....?

    • @12qwas12as
      @12qwas12as Před rokem

      @@stephenlesliephoto looking forward to wherever is coming…

  • @neilgenower9950
    @neilgenower9950 Před rokem +2

    Great research and brilliantly written. It's about time this kind of constructed banality of gloom and organised bilge was called out. Nice one !

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem

      I just seem to have said what a lot of people have been thinking but keeping to themselves! Glad you liked it. More will follow.

  • @adenijiadetomi1469
    @adenijiadetomi1469 Před rokem +1

    Enjoyed the episode, I was literally refreshing your page on intervals to check the video drops. it was totally worth it.

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem +1

      Glad to hear it! Just subscribe and it should let you know automatically. Thanks again.

  • @WhoIsSerafin
    @WhoIsSerafin Před rokem +2

    Secret exposed, good hair creates creativity

  • @DavidBennettplus
    @DavidBennettplus Před rokem +1

    Very entertaining. Crewdson's colours are great. Bilious green. I get your point, and probably agree. I liked Crewdson's photos when I first saw them, because they are eerie. Then I saw an exhibition of his photos at the Photographer's Gallery and was less enamoured. Maybe he is just impatient to get something down.
    There are scenes in MadMen where the camera pans back, wide angle - and we are looking in on the remains of a scene, telling you it is staged but it is true.
    As I said, very entertaining, and educational. Do more.

  • @dennislee8253
    @dennislee8253 Před rokem +1

    This was excellent and so very entertaining. Thank you so much. Also thank you to Andy Adams for steering me to this. Such a treat!

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem

      Glad you enjoyed it! More to follow, Andy has excellent taste. Thanks for watching.

  • @sansclous
    @sansclous Před rokem +1

    Top tier content, critique, and conversation about coiffure. Very much looking forward to the next one.

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem

      There might not always be a hair element but who know? Glad you’re enjoying them. Thanks very much.

  • @hephph
    @hephph Před rokem +1

    another awesome video! this is quickly becoming one of my favourite channels on here. thanks for putting these out Stephen

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem

      Glad you like them. More will follow in a slow but steady fashion….

  • @digitaldion
    @digitaldion Před rokem +1

    Stunning! Please, keep the videos coming! I think one of the reasons why I love street photography, and reportage, is that it captures ‘dailyness’. In a hyper manufactured and curated world, this is so refreshing. That being said, there is also a kind of artistry in the work of those photographers who make portraits and scenes that are carefully constructed, lit, and staged. Yes, but the Trumbo quote rings true for me too! Thank you Stephen.

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem +1

      He knew a thing or two did Dalton. There's a very good film about him (just called Trumbo) with Bryan Cranston. Worth seeking out. Thanks for watching. More to follow, please subscribe, tell all your friends etc etc....

  • @iraaikman
    @iraaikman Před rokem +1

    Awesome video, great insights. Looking forward to more!

  • @user-nj7qg5cl3v
    @user-nj7qg5cl3v Před rokem +1

    Another brilliant illuminating episode. I learned so much. ididnt know enough about Joel Sternfeld. And the use of that Dalton Trumbo quote - genius! totally agree. Loved it

  • @sergebeb
    @sergebeb Před rokem +1

    Thank you so much for these videos. Finally an entertaining and foremost very instructive channel about photography. Keep them coming.

  • @Snulrich
    @Snulrich Před rokem +2

    Perfectly summarised!! Amazing work, Stephen

  • @StreetPhotographyChannel

    As an old appreciator of Sternfeld photography I just can say THANK YOU for this fantastic video.

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem +1

      My pleasure. I'm glad you enjoyed it. Hopefully more will follow.....

  • @denismortell1181
    @denismortell1181 Před rokem +2

    Creatively, JS and GC occupy different universes: and in GC's case, not in a good way. (JS's "Dubai" series is brilliant and very relevant now.)

  • @lazhar_captures
    @lazhar_captures Před rokem +3

    Great video, man. Very informative and inspiring. Audio sounds great btw 👍🏼🙂

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem +2

      I appreciate it! Early sound issues have now been sorted! I even have a proper audio technician/ sound mixer!

  • @davidwoods80
    @davidwoods80 Před rokem +1

    So refreshing to hear thoughts on photography that go beyond genuflection to the artists. Opinion! What a concept!

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem

      Thanks. Do you think it will catch on?

    • @davidwoods80
      @davidwoods80 Před rokem

      @@stephenlesliephoto I'm hoping your channel catches on, so we can all laugh at the imitation 'content creaators' that will surely follow your lead. I will be smug, knowing that I was an early adopter, and ahead of the CZcams hive-mind algorithm.

  • @riwan91
    @riwan91 Před rokem +1

    Man, this video is awesome. In all sorts of ways.

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem

      I’m glad you liked it. Thanks for watching please subscribe, share etc etc….

  • @geoffmphotography9444
    @geoffmphotography9444 Před rokem +1

    I didn't know much about Sternfeld but now I've learned more. Agree wholeheartedly about Crewdson's photography; there's nothing there and I have always thought that. Glad I'm not alone. Great channel Stephen.

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem +1

      Thanks very much, I have been pleasantly surprised by how many people seem to agree. Still, I guess Zap won't be losing any sleep over it. More films to follow soon, stay tuned.

  • @tbostrowski6136
    @tbostrowski6136 Před rokem +1

    yet another thought provoking video. Stephen you certainly are contributing to the dialogue in photography. I confess that I hadn't thought of Zapp Crewdson in this way the you brilliantly illustrate. Don't stop...its awesome shit.

  • @Kalaharish
    @Kalaharish Před rokem +1

    well, thanks for sharing so much new insights and especially for having an authentic opinion about stuff

  • @carlitodcreative
    @carlitodcreative Před rokem +1

    Awesome again, Stephen....! Very insightful!!!

  • @gordonwill6885
    @gordonwill6885 Před rokem +1

    Worthy winner, another great video. Thank you.. 👍👍

  • @localcolour
    @localcolour Před rokem +1

    So good, you know so well and yet you are so modest, brilliant insights and great taste and judgement

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem

      Wow, thank you! Let's not get too carried away though. I'm British, I don't know how to respond to too many compliments! Glad you enjoyed the film, hopefully more will follow...

  • @espilium
    @espilium Před rokem +1

    Thank you very much for sharing your though, knowledge and wisdom. It's always very interesting and informative. And pedagogical too: 22 min are going so fast. Keep going !!! (please 🙂)

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem

      My pleasure! And thank you for the use of the word pedagogical! More will follow, although they might be shorter.

  • @SliponGravel1
    @SliponGravel1 Před rokem +1

    Utterly brilliant, thank you Stephen.

  • @Nerdzombiedisco
    @Nerdzombiedisco Před rokem +1

    Brilliant. I always felt more uneasy about Zap manipulating the viewer, let alone his sets. Black-locked Harpo for the win. Cheers.

  • @peterkorcek9506
    @peterkorcek9506 Před rokem +2

    thank you very much for this summary and clear opinion

  • @roderikrotting
    @roderikrotting Před rokem +1

    Won-der-full!!! Truly enjoy this. You expressed my feelings that I was never able to verbalise. Whilst thinking of John Berger of all people! Love your gaze!

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem

      Thanks very much! Berger is obviously a big hero but he didn't make so many cheap hair jokes. Stay tuned, more to follow....

  • @pauljohnroberts4933
    @pauljohnroberts4933 Před rokem +1

    Found you through Andy Adams at Substack. So glad. Enjoyed the straight talking regardless agreeing with it or not. Hope you can carry on.

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem +1

      Thanks very much Paul, glad to have you onboard. I will try to keep on keeping on. Stay tuned...

  • @Doogle136
    @Doogle136 Před rokem +2

    I too see the hollow and repetitive ring to Crewdson’s elaborate productions. But, is it possible his fantasy images unintentionally expose an America where it is desperately hard to know what, if anything, is real?

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem +1

      Well, you might be right. Or you might just be falling in to Greg Zap's expensively staged trap....
      Who knows?

  • @JustinPhillip
    @JustinPhillip Před rokem +1

    Hell yea!! I can not get enough of your videos!! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 Pure gold! KEEP GOING!!!

  • @stevescott2052
    @stevescott2052 Před rokem +1

    Great comparison, very insightful.. thanks Stephen

  • @krishnapriyaka3261
    @krishnapriyaka3261 Před rokem +1

    I wish I had discovered your channel earlier, wasn’t expecting that t shirt😂, brilliant talk!

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem

      At least you've discovered it now Krishna, hope you enjoy them all. My range of photography inspired t-shirts will be launching sometime next year....

  • @jamestaylor6062
    @jamestaylor6062 Před rokem +1

    Really interesting stuff!

  • @Pat-1000
    @Pat-1000 Před rokem +1

    Thanks as ever Stephen .. Enjoyed

  • @dbugatto
    @dbugatto Před rokem +1

    I have 'Early Pictures' , it's brilliant . Top notch vid !

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem

      I love that book. Thanks for watching Dominic. Get all of Toronto to subscribe please.

  • @robindrugermany
    @robindrugermany Před rokem +1

    Fantastic and entertaining. I just shared this video with my students. they are all huge Crewdson fans. I can't wait to hear their responses.

    • @SharonLavierOKeefe
      @SharonLavierOKeefe Před rokem +1

      Just watched your brilliant and enlightening video and will definitely share it with my students. I am now a subscriber; thanks so much for sharing your thoughtful perspective.

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem +1

      Ha! Please let me know what they think. Maybe we can turn a few???

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem

      @@SharonLavierOKeefe Thanks very much, it’s good to know that people like them. Let me know what your students think…

  • @Wpoolesf
    @Wpoolesf Před rokem +1

    First-time viewer, and now new subscriber. I have and love American Prospects, and when I saw the Crewdson photos they pretty much left me cold. You have helped me understand why.

  • @terencelaubach6565
    @terencelaubach6565 Před rokem +1

    Superb again! Four for four.

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem

      Thank you very much, maybe I should just quit now before the inevitable decline in quality?

  • @larrycohen5553
    @larrycohen5553 Před rokem +1

    Ha. So glad that after quickly realizing I don't give a shit about dogs, I watched this one. A pleasure. Well done. Looking forward to more.

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem

      I will forgive you this once. Glad you found them, more to follow (although the next one is dogs part 2...) have you watched the bald one yet?

  • @SlavaVeres
    @SlavaVeres Před rokem +1

    ❤ Sternfield is one of my favourites!

  • @franforman5287
    @franforman5287 Před rokem +2

    Revealing and informative analysis, and I now must reconsider my 'infatuation' with 'Zap'. What do you think is the appeal of Zap's work, and why and how do his prints sell so well? Anyway, I just subscribed to your episodes.

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem

      Thanks very much. Zap has a big gallery behind him and he makes for good copy. That’s about it as far as I can see. Become infatuated with Sternfeld instead, it’s better for you!

  • @bouwebrouwer879
    @bouwebrouwer879 Před rokem +1

    Nailed it!

  • @ianrose2922
    @ianrose2922 Před rokem +1

    Catching up with these during the Christmas-new year limbo is an absolute treat. X

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem

      Ian is that you? (If it’s not, sorry)

    • @ianrose2922
      @ianrose2922 Před rokem +1

      @@stephenlesliephoto It is me. No need to apologise. But sometimes it's best to get one or two in anyway.

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem +1

      @@ianrose2922 Lovely to know you’re watching and enjoying! Please now go use your immense reach to get everyone in Australia to watch all the videos! Thanks.

  • @tommywu9867
    @tommywu9867 Před rokem +1

    Just subscribed. Thank you for making this video and sharing your inquisitive eye and knowledge about photography. I exposed to GC's work over a few decades ago and have been admired of his big budget image making because I am a photographer and wished I had his privileges' to execute such elaborate setups for one image. About JS, I will appreciate his work differently after this video. An image by JS created from real life scenario takes more visual literacy to dissect and appreciate while GC staged photographs are pop art and accessible for the mass. Although their skills are different, I tend to appreciate real-life more because it requires so much moving parts to pull it off - experience, planning, patience, visual skills and some luck at the right place and the right time. I am hunger for more of your videos.

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem +1

      Thanks very much. I'm glad you enjoyed it. I will try not to leave you too hungry.

  • @184186
    @184186 Před rokem +2

    I'm a fan of Sternfeld... quit being envious of his hair. Joking!

  • @MatthewHolmesPhotography

    I enjoyed the video immensely and am definitely a Joel Sternfeld fan. I understand how the two ended up in this comparison video by Stephen Leslie based on the theme, but pitting Gregory Crewdson against Jeff Wall would make for a more interesting discussion. Sternfeld is on another level; maybe Paul Graham could be discussed with Sternfeld.

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem

      I might try pitting Paul Graham against Jeff Wall?? In an actual pit? Thanks for watching, glad you liked it. New video on dogs in street photography has gone up, please take a look.

  • @mrbigg2u
    @mrbigg2u Před 5 měsíci

    Excellent assessment of the pair. Greg's snaps are dare I say it almost AI like, devoid of soul. Where as the monster clicker that is Joel is a master. American Prospects is one of my most valued books. Amazing even more so to think it was shot on plate. Alex Prager. I love her work, even though these are heavily constructed... What do you make of her body of work, interested to know...? Thought provoking video sir!

  • @MrWilfreda
    @MrWilfreda Před rokem +1

    What a fantastic video! I thoroughly enjoyed your presentation and summary. I totally agree with your comments. In essence chance encounter versus artifice. The whole difference hinges on this element and Sternfeld's Images permit the viewer to imagine the why's. Crewdsons, staging lacks that dynamic. To this end, get in touch if you want to see my work, I think you will love it.

  • @naomilviai1
    @naomilviai1 Před rokem +1

    Ouch! SO good. Agree with every word and so enjoyed it. Thank you 🎃😂

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem +1

      You are so welcome! Thanks so watching.

    • @naomilviai1
      @naomilviai1 Před rokem +1

      @@stephenlesliephoto I'm very interested in the history of all the female photographers who did such important work but are not widely mentioned as part of the cannon and mainstream history of the medium - It would be lovely if you could do an episode (or two!) with your take on them. I know you did one on Diane Arbus, but I'm thinking of experimental and non-center figures such as Claude Cahun, Ilse Bing, Graciela Iturbide, Barbara Morgan... the list is endless. I would love to see them included beside the usual suspects (good or bad 😂)

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem

      @@naomilviai1 Thanks very much for the suggestions. Yes, I fully intend to do more female photographers - although my area of knowledge is fairly focused on street plus I need to be able to find a good angle (and room for bad jokes!) I will check out some of the photographers you mention and please just stay tuned. One or another might pop up in the future......

    • @naomilviai1
      @naomilviai1 Před rokem

      PS - I ran into Joel a couple of months ago and he still has great hair

  • @gregwill500
    @gregwill500 Před rokem +2

    I love this channel:) That was great. I remember being initially impressed with Gregory Crewdson. I came across him when searching for some reference images ( I’m an art director who also takes pictures ). I needed to show something cinematic and stylised. That was years ago. Then more recently I had a similar requirement and thought I would reference mr zap again. But looking through his work again…I had the same “left cold” feeling. Pretentious arty photos with no soul and the same boring protagonists. And all the craft and lighting provided by a skilled dop who greg briefed. He’s a stills director at most, not really a photographer. Loved your heavy metal versus pop analogy:) 🤘And your recurring hair obsession! And your unapologetic dislike of the celebrity darling gushing bilge that flows out of most of the art world. But most of all I loved discovering a new photographer and seeing beautiful inspiring images. Thanks!

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem

      Thanks very much, in order to appreciate my hair obsession you need to watch episode one. Hopefully it will explain everything. Glad you stumbled across me, much more to come.....soonish.

    • @gregwill500
      @gregwill500 Před rokem +1

      @@stephenlesliephoto yup I watched episode one and commented there. I’m sure you can’t keep track of all the comments. I would loose all my hair trying ( and not just the spot at the back).

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem

      @@gregwill500 Thanks for watching them all. And you are right, it is impossible for me to keep track of all the comments. Which, I suppose, is a good thing????

  • @larrycohen5553
    @larrycohen5553 Před rokem +3

    And Crewdson's shit would be good if the production cost was closer to ten bucks. Then I'd be impressed.

  • @paulgero
    @paulgero Před rokem +1

    Fantastic! Subscribed

  • @leslieditmer1087
    @leslieditmer1087 Před rokem +1

    Sternfeld I believe drove around with a police scanner which led him to many photographs including the exhausted elephant.

  • @danwongphoto
    @danwongphoto Před rokem +1

    🤘🤘🤘 by the way, there’s some great footage of Joel working in the field in the old BBC doc “the genius of photography”. Think he’s taking a picture of someone parachuting to the ground. Again, must be a chance encounter. I’ve got the DVD somewhere, I should have a look again!

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem +1

      Shit! Wish I’d known, I saw that series years ago but don’t remember that. I’ll have to revisit and then re-edit the whole film!

    • @danwongphoto
      @danwongphoto Před rokem

      @@stephenlesliephoto yeah was great. I think Joel Sternfeld was on the “Paper Movies” episode. I think. I also remember seeing Joel Meyerowitz talking about street photography for the first time and it blew my mind. And I also wondered why all photographers were called Joel.

  • @UnderexposedwithAlastairBird

    Not gonna lie: If I have an opportunity to purchase an 'exhausted renegade elephant' t-shirt I won't hesitate. Thanks for the video - great stuff.

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem

      Ha! If I get enough requests I may do a limited run. What size would you be after? Theoretically???

    • @UnderexposedwithAlastairBird
      @UnderexposedwithAlastairBird Před rokem +1

      @@stephenlesliephoto Men's Large. And I know of at least one other photography geek who would have one.

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem +1

      @@UnderexposedwithAlastairBird It might yet happen, let me look in to it. Will report back.

    • @UnderexposedwithAlastairBird
      @UnderexposedwithAlastairBird Před rokem

      @@stephenlesliephoto I look forward to news, at your convenience, of course.

    • @jitsejager325
      @jitsejager325 Před rokem +1

      Here's a +1 for this idea!

  • @BatterseaWerkbund
    @BatterseaWerkbund Před rokem +1

    I completely agree with your thesis. GC's early work blew me away - for all those emo reasons you mention. But his Cathedral of the Pines show at Photographer's Galley left me cold. Well not quite, I felt uncomfortable and not in the way the early work intended me to: just too many scantily clad young women for a man of his age (which is also my age - and much as I .... well you know ... but there's a limit or a right way to explore it). IIR he cut a bit of a lonely figure at the opening party. Certainly no fan mob, although that might have just been timing (and of course I should have taken his photo as a meta comment). By contrast I've never once felt like screaming: "Enough already, Joel. Move on."
    Really enjoying these videos. Thanks.

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem

      Thanks for watching, glad you're enjoying them. Yes, I also went to that show and was completely bored by it. Although, I didn't get to go to the opening party. Were the canapes at least nice?

    • @BatterseaWerkbund
      @BatterseaWerkbund Před rokem +1

      @@stephenlesliephoto Ha - yes they were.

  • @stephansagmiller5460
    @stephansagmiller5460 Před rokem +2

    The two most frequented areas in a book store are Fiction and Non-fiction. There have been countless wars launched against both modes of thought throughout human history, and yet, they relentlessly stand tall.

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem +1

      True and I like both, I'm not planting my flag in any particular camp. However, I prefer some truths to some fictions and some fictions to other truths.

    • @12qwas12as
      @12qwas12as Před rokem +1

      Both fiction and non fiction can meaningful or vapid, humble or pompous…. Just speaking in generalities, of course.

  • @Blanktarn
    @Blanktarn Před 5 měsíci

    The difference between Crewdson and Sternfeld fundamentally is, when you look at Sternfeld’s work, you’re inspired to go out and capture… when you look at Crewdson’s, you think “wow, this looks cool, let me see if I could get a loan”

  • @pofoto1
    @pofoto1 Před rokem +1

    Awesome. Let's start a band!!!

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem

      Okay, although I have no musical talent whatsoever.

    • @pofoto1
      @pofoto1 Před rokem

      @@stephenlesliephoto alas me neither. But that never stopped the punkscene from happening, so there might be hope. 😜

  • @robinchun1
    @robinchun1 Před rokem +1

    I wonder how many of Greg 'Zaps' celebrity fans are even aware of Joel's work?

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem +2

      I have sent out survey questionnaires. Yet to get any reply. Stay tuned for further episodes and I promise to keep you updated.

  • @allyperry8620
    @allyperry8620 Před rokem +1

    Wonderful analysis. You put the finger on what I’ve felt but not been able to fully articulate when viewing his work, it is repetitively depressing, never hopeful or rejuvenating. All real artists shift gears regardless of what their dealers/adorers want, Crewdson hasn’t done that. Maybe more than anything, the amount of effort he puts into his scene imagery makes people think he’s worthy of icon status?

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem

      Well he's now done people looking moody at night, people looking moody during the day, people looking moody outdoors and people looking moody indoors. So there is a bit of variety! Who knows why he's so iconic? I suspect a lot of it is to do with being represented by a big, powerful gallery and charging loads of money for a print? Glad you enjoyed the film. More to follow. Stay tuned.

  • @vedimido
    @vedimido Před rokem +2

    One suggestion! Why don't you produce and sell those Ts that relate to each episode? You could promote the channel and make a few squids. Just a thought. Best, Mimi

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem +1

      I am toying with the idea....stay tuned and we'll see. Thanks for watching.

  • @russrowland1493
    @russrowland1493 Před rokem +1

    Dead on about GC’s work…

  • @gerryorkin
    @gerryorkin Před rokem +1

    Crewdon’s work is hair today, gone a bit later today. I can’t conjure up a single image from memory. It’s pixel salad.

  • @owainshaw
    @owainshaw Před rokem +1

    Cool story that will be of little-to-no interest to anyone: at University I (with the help of some patient and slightly confused friends) made a short series called 'Parked Cars and Briefcases' that was a very low-budget parody of Zap's work. To get up high I mostly had to climb on bottle banks. I stand by this work ... although I've got no idea where the negatives are, and definitely don't have any scans.
    Still, your video perfectly explains why I felt like making that small series, Zap's pictures to me just involved people who had stopped their cars somewhere for some reason, dropped a briefcase on the floor and decided to stare off camera at something. In hindsight, my pictures lacked pregnant women.

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem +2

      Ha! That's great. Glad you enjoyed the film. Maybe you should re-visit your own series but this time try to rope in a few pregnant women and get them to mope about? I could lend you a ladder if there are no nearby bottle banks.

    • @owainshaw
      @owainshaw Před rokem +1

      @@stephenlesliephoto one of my friends is currently pregnant. Perhaps this is a sign.
      Ladder would have felt like cheating (and been impractical given that I travelled by bike) ten years ago, but I am ten years older now. Can't hurt!

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem

      @@owainshaw Do it!

  • @charlieclick
    @charlieclick Před rokem

    Wow, that was fantastic. Subscribed

  • @Sup90210
    @Sup90210 Před rokem +2

    Crewdson is a hack. He’s a Jeff Wall wannabe trying to separate himself with higher production value. Sternfeld is one of the most underrated photographers out there, he’s Shore with personality and a sense of humour. Also, when it comes to early colour street photography don’t forget Fred Herzog, he was shooting colour long before rich boy Eggleston picked up a camera.

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem +1

      Yes, I very briefly touch on Herzog (and his hair) in my first film about baldness. He's great, took one of my favourite photos of all time and may even get a film of his own sometime in the future! Thanks for watching. Stay tuned....

    • @Sup90210
      @Sup90210 Před rokem

      @@stephenlesliephoto looking forward to it. You could probably do a video just on The Vancouver School, Herzog and Girard. Vancouver has had a largely unknown influence on “contemporary” photography.

  • @gdmcclintockIII
    @gdmcclintockIII Před rokem +1

    While your monologue about manly hairstyles smacks a bit too much of celebrity culture, your panegyric for Sternfeld and critique of Crewdson are intelligently researched and cogently expressed. Thank you very much indeed.

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem

      You are welcome. Glad you enjoyed it. have you watched episode one yet? The Bald Truth. That will explain my otherwise trivial sounding obsession with Sternfled's hair. There is a method to my madness. Thanks for watching.

    • @gdmcclintockIII
      @gdmcclintockIII Před rokem

      ​@@stephenlesliephoto Yes! I watched and enjoyed all your videos. The baldie joke is not aging well.
      Still, your Crewdson history bit reminded me of our boy band, which back in ’69 was a power trio called Vera Chuck & Dave (after the Beatles lyric). Think Cream without Eric, Jack, and Ginger. Vera was spoken for. The guitarist and I couldn’t decide who was Chuck and who was Dave, and we were happy to be either one, as long as we weren’t Vera.

    • @bhadriverduzco5923
      @bhadriverduzco5923 Před rokem

      Really? I find the balding joke about unite entertaining

  • @gfet556
    @gfet556 Před rokem +1

    😂

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem

      Sam, is that a photo of you without a beard?

    • @gfet556
      @gfet556 Před rokem

      I am afraid so. An ancient profile picture on YT from years ago I have never updated. Now is the time.

  • @DenisMark1
    @DenisMark1 Před rokem +2

    Dammit, I keep waiting to disagree with SOMETHING you've said. Like so many already have told you, you nailed for me what it is about Zap's work (yes, I will indulge you - at least you didn't pronounce Joel Sternfeld's first name "Joe-eel") that annoys me. You might have mentioned that Philip-Lorca diCorcia was doing the same sort of thing before Crewdson - posed photos of disaffected Americans...it's the idea of wanting to look 'stumbled upon' while being totally controlled and edited that also adds to the facile nature of his work. Finally, the notion that you're able to get ANYTHING done with two mopey twelve-year-olds in the house is worthy of admiration alone. An episode about photographers who's work is shooting their children (as opposed to wanting to shoot their children, which let's face it, we all have felt now and again) would be interesting. The obvious is Sally Mann, but you never go for the obvious, which is why I will watch whatever you put up and wait for the next one eagerly.

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem +1

      If you really want an argument I'm sure we can find something to disagree about. Kids is a possible but tricky future subject. Glad you've enjoyed what I've done so far. More will follow in a bit, maybe you'll hate it.....?

    • @DenisMark1
      @DenisMark1 Před rokem +1

      @@stephenlesliephoto That's the spirit! I think my favorite thing in reading the comments is how uncomfortable you are getting compliments - I know that's an English thing...I promise I'll find SOMETHING to dislike in your next one! Onward!

  • @vedimido
    @vedimido Před rokem

    and btw, I also thoroughly dislike GC

  • @steveb2145
    @steveb2145 Před rokem

    two different photographers completely. whats the point in comparing?

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem +4

      Hello Steve, thanks for watching. The point is made in the film but I'll repeat it for you here.
      1. Crewdson has repeatedly stated how much of an influence Sternfeld had on his work, to the extent that he went and sought him out at his gallery.
      2. The film aimed to investigate a kind of Halloween-ish moody photography that deals in the weird and unsettling. Yes, they both use very different techniques and practices but both men are occasionally going after the same effect.
      3. I give numerous examples of similar subjects, compositions and tone.
      4. It's my film, I can compare who the hell I want!

  • @Neil-Aspinall
    @Neil-Aspinall Před rokem +1

    It depends on what you want a photographer to be? Sternfeld has a happy accident style and believe me if you take enough happy accident pics you will get some that appear to have a much deeper meaning than you ever intended. Crewdson paints with the camera and he knows exactly what he wants which for me is superior. If you want to see the Master of the happy accident style see Sir Henri Cartier-Bresson.

    • @hectormunozhuerta
      @hectormunozhuerta Před rokem

      It takes a lot more than just shooting around long enough to get HCB grade stuff.

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před rokem

      Neil, I think we’ll have to just agree to disagree here. To dismiss what Sternfeld does as just happy accidents is frankly just insulting and to claim Crewdson paints with light when he has a DOP and a camera operator (and I imagine a whole team of retouchers) to do it for him is being generous in the extreme. Especially as the effect he seems to want to create is just the same, ‘weird and alienated’ tone over and over again. But thanks for your comment, glad you watched it. All the best.

  • @jd87a
    @jd87a Před 9 měsíci +1

    Stephen, have you seen the work of Brian Karlsson (@voyeur1)? A lot of his photos have this "mysterious" or "spooky" aspect you describe.

    • @stephenlesliephoto
      @stephenlesliephoto  Před 8 měsíci +1

      Hello, yes I have. In fact, Brian is currently staying in my spare room. True story (honest!).

    • @jd87a
      @jd87a Před 8 měsíci

      @@stephenlesliephoto Wonderful