What Camera Gear do they use?

  Susan Meiselas: The Witness Who Stays Introduction Susan Meiselas (b. 1948, Baltimore) is one of the most significant and morally rigorous documentary photographers of the last half-century. A member of  Magnum Photos  since 1976 — and President of the  Magnum Foundation  since its founding in 2007 — she first came to prominence with  Carnival Strippers  (1976), a groundbreaking multi-year project photographing women performing in travelling strip shows across New England. That work established the hallmarks that would define her entire career: long-term immersion, ethical commitment to her subjects, and a documentary practice that goes far beyond the single image. She is best known internationally for her coverage of the Sandinista insurrection in Nicaragua (1978–1979), producing some of the most iconic images in the history of conflict photography — most notably  Molotov Man  (1979), named by  Time  magazine as one of the 100 mo...

  David "Chim" Seymour: The Concerned Eye Introduction David Seymour (1911–1956), affectionately known as "Chim," was a founding father of modern photojournalism and a co-founder of Magnum Photos alongside Henri Cartier-Bresson and Robert Capa. Born in Warsaw, Chim was the intellectual heart of the group, known for his compassionate and deeply humanistic approach to photography.  His work is most famous for documenting the devastating effects of the Spanish Civil War and the plight of "Children of Europe" following World War II. Chim’s photography was never about the spectacle of violence; instead, it focused on the quiet resilience of those left in its wake. A master of the "concerned photograph," he used his lens to advocate for social justice and humanitarian aid until his untimely death while covering the Suez Crisis. Camera Gear Used by David Seymour Cameras Leica III series – Like his Magnum peers, Chim was a devotee of the Leica rangefind...

  Marc Riboud: The Geometry of Peace Introduction Marc Riboud (1923–2016) was a titan of French photojournalism and a central figure in the Magnum Photos agency. Born in Lyon, Riboud’s vision was shaped by a quiet, observant nature—a "taciturn" quality that allowed him to blend into the background of history. He is best known for his extensive coverage of the East, particularly China and Vietnam, during periods of immense political upheaval. Riboud’s work is characterized by a rare combination of rigorous geometric composition and profound empathy. He didn’t just document conflict; he sought the "grace" within it, famously capturing a young woman offering a flower to bayonet-wielding soldiers in 1967. His photography remains a testament to the idea that a camera can show a world in flux without losing sight of the individual human spirit. Camera Gear Used by Marc Riboud Cameras Leica M3 – Riboud’s definitive tool. Given to him by his father, this camera traveled wi...

The Best Gear for Documentary Photography and Photojournalism According to the World’s Most Respected Documentary Photographers Documentary photography and photojournalism demand more from camera gear than almost any other genre. These photographers work in unpredictable, often difficult conditions, with no control over light, timing, or environment. The gear they choose must be reliable, fast, discreet, and capable of delivering uncompromising image quality under pressure. By analyzing the equipment used by the world’s leading documentary photographers and photojournalists featured on WhatCameraGear.com — from long-term social projects to frontline reportage — clear patterns emerge. This article distills those patterns to identify the best gear for documentary photography and photojournalism , based on what the professionals actually use in the field. What Documentary and Photojournalism Gear Must Do Before looking at specific cameras and lenses, it’s important to understand t...

  Weegee: The Master of Raw Urban Storytelling Introduction Weegee (Arthur Fellig, 1899–1968) was one of the most iconic and influential street photographers of the 20th century. Known for his stark, high-contrast black-and-white images of New York City’s crime scenes, nightlife, and urban chaos, Weegee captured the raw, unfiltered essence of mid-century America. His work blended photojournalism with a unique artistic sensibility, making him a pioneer in documenting the gritty reality of city life. Weegee’s ability to arrive at the scene of an event before anyone else—earning him his nickname from the Ouija board—cemented his legend as a photographer who was always in the right place at the right time. Camera Gear Used by Weegee Cameras 4×5 Speed Graphic – Weegee’s primary camera, renowned for its durability and reliability. He used this large-format press camera for its ability to produce high-quality, detailed negatives, even in low-light conditions. Burke & James Pr...

  William Klein: The Rebel Who Redefined Street Photography Introduction William Klein (1928–2022) was an American-French photographer and filmmaker whose raw, uncompromising style revolutionized street and fashion photography. Known for his high-contrast, grainy, and often chaotic images, Klein broke the rules of traditional photography, embracing blur, distortion, and bold compositions. His work captured the energy and complexity of urban life, particularly in his iconic books like Life Is Good & Good for You in New York (1956) and his city-focused projects in Rome, Moscow, and Tokyo. Klein’s fearless approach and innovative techniques continue to inspire photographers to push the boundaries of the medium. Camera Gear Used by William Klein Cameras Leica IIIf – Borrowed from Henri Cartier-Bresson, this was Klein’s primary camera for his groundbreaking New York street photography in the mid-1950s. Leica IIIf Leica M2 – Used for its compactness and quiet operation, ideal fo...

  Inge Morath: The Humanist Eye of Magnum Photography Introduction Inge Morath (1923–2002) was one of the first women to join the prestigious Magnum Photos agency, where she became renowned for her empathetic, humanistic approach to photography. Born in Austria, Morath’s career spanned five decades, capturing everything from intimate portraits of cultural icons to vibrant street scenes and poignant documentary work. Her ability to connect with her subjects and reveal their essence made her a defining figure in 20th-century photography. Camera Gear Used by Inge Morath Cameras Leica rangefinder cameras – Morath was closely associated with Leica, particularly using models compatible with 35mm film, which allowed for discreet, candid photography. 35mm film cameras – She primarily shot with 35mm cameras, as evidenced by her extensive archive of black-and-white 35mm negatives held by Magnum Photos. Lenses Leica 35mm f/1.4 (pre-aspherical) – A favored lens for its versatility and a...

  René Burri: The Architect of Political and Cultural Photography Introduction René Burri (1933–2014) was one of the most influential photographers to emerge from Magnum Photos in the postwar period. Best known for his iconic portraits of political and cultural figures — including Che Guevara, Pablo Picasso, and Le Corbusier — Burri combined architectural precision with human insight, creating images that are both documentary records and visual essays. Born in Zurich, Burri was trained at the Kunstgewerbeschule under Hans Finsler, where he developed a strong sense of geometry, structure, and form. This background shaped his entire career. Whether photographing global politics, modern architecture, or everyday life across continents, Burri’s images reveal an analytical eye balanced by curiosity and empathy. Burri’s photography is not driven by drama or confrontation. Instead, it unfolds through observation, composition, and intellectual engagement — making him a key figure in the ...