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Anton Corbijn

 

Anton Corbijn, the renowned Dutch photographer and filmmaker, is celebrated for his raw, intimate portraits of musicians and artists. His distinctive style is characterized by minimal equipment, natural settings, and a preference for analog photography.

Camera Equipment

  • Hasselblad Medium Format Cameras: Corbijn often utilizes Hasselblad cameras for square-format images, like the Hasselblad 501CM or the 503CW. These cameras are known for their simplicity and reliability, aligning with his straightforward approach to photography.

Hasselblad 501CM

Hasselblad 503CW

  • Leica 35mm Rangefinders: For 35mm photography, Corbijn prefers Leica cameras. He appreciates the tactile experience and the anticipation involved in shooting film, stating that digital photography's immediacy can alter the shooting process and diminish the sense of adventure.

Film and Processing

  • Kodak Tri-X Black-and-White Film: Corbijn favors Kodak Tri-X film for its grainy texture, which he believes adds a sense of realism and imperfection to his images.

  • Minimal Post-Processing: While he does engage in post-production, Corbijn is cautious about over-editing. He believes that excessive manipulation can strip an image of its soul, preferring to maintain the authenticity captured during the shoot.

Shooting Style

  • Handheld Shooting: Corbijn consistently shoots handheld, avoiding tripods to maintain a sense of spontaneity and imperfection in his work.

  • Natural Light and Locations: He typically eschews artificial lighting and studio settings, opting instead for natural light and unconventional locations like beaches, streets, or fields. This approach contributes to the raw and candid feel of his photographs.

  • Use of Props: Corbijn often incorporates props such as masks, hats, and costumes to add a surreal or theatrical element to his images, enhancing their narrative quality.

Transition to Digital

In recent years, Corbijn has transitioned to digital photography, primarily due to the declining availability of film and the economic constraints within the publishing industry. Despite this shift, he maintains a minimalist approach, often working alone or with a small team, and continues to prioritize the authenticity and mood of his images over technical perfection.

If you're interested in emulating Corbijn's style, consider using a medium format or 35mm film camera, shooting in black and white, utilizing natural light, and embracing the imperfections that come with analog photography.

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