Alfred Eisenstaedt
Alfred Eisenstaedt
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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Alfred Eisenstaedt's full name was Alfred Isidore Eisenstaedt. He is commonly known as Al.
Birth and Death Dates
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Eisenstaedt was born on December 6, 1898, in Düsseldorf, Germany. He passed away on August 24, 1995, at the age of 96 in New York City.
Nationality and Profession(s)
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Eisenstaedt held German nationality but later became a naturalized American citizen. His profession was that of a photographer, particularly renowned for his work as an international photojournalist.
Early Life and Background
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Growing up in Düsseldorf, Eisenstaedt's early life was marked by financial struggles following the loss of his father at a young age. This led him to take on odd jobs before eventually enrolling in art school. However, it was during World War I that he found his true calling as a photographer. He worked for various German and American publications, documenting major historical events.
Major Accomplishments
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Eisenstaedt's career spanned nearly seven decades and included numerous pivotal moments. One of his most notable achievements came when he captured the famous "V-J Day in Times Square" moment on August 14, 1945. This photograph shows a sailor kissing a nurse in celebration of Japan's surrender during World War II.
Notable Works or Actions
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Eisenstaedt was part of the prestigious LIFE magazine team, working alongside other renowned photographers like Margaret Bourke-White and Dorothea Lange. His work took him to various parts of the world, capturing pivotal moments in history such as the liberation of Paris during World War II.
Impact and Legacy
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Eisenstaedt's photography career not only left an indelible mark on the world of photojournalism but also influenced generations of photographers to come. His ability to capture candid moments made him a favorite among celebrities, politicians, and ordinary people alike.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Eisenstaedt's photographs are widely recognized for their candid nature and ability to capture the essence of historical events in an intimate way. It is not surprising that he remains one of the most celebrated photojournalists of the 20th century, with his work continuing to inspire photographers today.
In conclusion, Alfred Eisenstaedt was more than just a photographer; he was a witness to history and a master at capturing its essence through his lens. His impact on photography is undeniable, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations of photographers for years to come.
Quotes by Alfred Eisenstaedt
Alfred Eisenstaedt's insights on:
I don’t like to work with assistants. I’m already one too many; the camera alone would be enough.
I seldom think when I take a picture. My eyes and fingers react – click. But first, it’s most important to decide on the angle at which your photograph is to be taken.
Photographers don’t need to be aggressive. Some are. Henry Benson is aggressive – but then he’s from Fleet Street. If you can talk to people, you don’t need to push people around.
Once the amateur’s naive approach and humble willingness to learn fades away, the creative spirit of good photography dies with it. Every professional should remain always in his heart an amateur.
When I photographed Marilyn Monroe, I mixed up my cameras – one had black-and-white film, the other color. I took many pictures. Only two color ones came out all right. My favorite picture of Marilyn hangs always on the wall in my office. It was taken on the little patio of her Hollywood house.
I will be remembered when I’m in heaven. People won’t remember my name, but they will know the photographer who did that picture of that nurse being kissed by the sailor at the end of World War II. Everybody remembers that.
I will be remembered when I'm in heaven. People won't remember my name, but they will know the photographer who did that picture of that nurse being kissed by the sailor at the end of World War II. Everybody remembers that.
Yes, I sold buttons to earn living. But I took pictures to keep on living. Pictures are my life – as necessary as eating or breathing.