What Camera Gear do they use?

  Marc Riboud: The Geometry of Peace by Halide 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 t...

Gueorgui Pinkhassov: The Master of Light and Color Introduction Gueorgui Pinkhassov, born in 1952 in Moscow, is a Russian photographer renowned for his vibrant, poetic, and often surreal use of color and light. As a member of Magnum Photos since 1988, Pinkhassov’s work captures the essence of human experience through a lens of dreamlike beauty and emotional depth.  His images are celebrated for their rich colors, dynamic compositions, and ability to transform everyday moments into extraordinary visual narratives. Pinkhassov’s photography transcends traditional documentary boundaries, blending fine art with a deep sense of humanity and wonder. Camera Gear Used by Gueorgui Pinkhassov Cameras Sony A7R series – Pinkhassov has been formally observed in recent workshops (such as in Rio) using the Sony A7R series. He favors these for their high resolution and color rendering, often pairing them with unexpected lenses. Sony A7R check price on Amazon Sony RX1 – A significant shift in his ...

  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...

  Edward Steichen: The Visionary Who Transformed Photography Introduction Edward Steichen (1879–1973) was a pioneering photographer, painter, and curator whose work spanned fine art, fashion, war, and documentary photography. Born in Luxembourg and raised in the United States, Steichen began his career as a painter before turning to photography, where he became a central figure in the Pictorialist movement and later a modernist innovator. His influence extended beyond his own images—he was a co-founder of the Photo-Secession, director of photography at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), and creator of the iconic The Family of Man exhibition. Steichen’s ability to blend artistry with technical mastery made him one of the most versatile and impactful photographers of the 20th century. Camera Gear Used by Edward Steichen Cameras Kodak "Detective" Box Camera – Steichen’s first camera, purchased secondhand in 1895, which he used to explore the basics of photography. Kodak Detecti...

  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...

  Berenice Abbott: The Architect of Modern Photography and New York’s Soul Introduction Berenice Abbott (1898–1991) was a trailblazing American photographer whose work bridged art, documentary, and science. Best known for her iconic black-and-white images of 1930s New York City, Abbott’s career spanned portraiture, urban landscapes, and scientific photography. Her meticulous approach and technical mastery made her one of the 20th century’s most influential photographers, capturing the essence of a transforming metropolis and the beauty of physical phenomena. Camera Gear Used by Berenice Abbott Cameras Century Universal 8x10 inch view camera – Used for her Changing New York project, prized for its precision and large-format detail. Korona 8x10 inch view camera – Employed during her early portraiture in Paris, offering exceptional image quality and control. Lenses Zeiss and Goerz optics – Renowned for sharpness and clarity, essential for her architectural and documentary work...

  Lisette Model: The Uncompromising Eye of Street and Portrait Photography Introduction Lisette Model (1901–1983) was one of the most radical and influential photographers of the 20th century. Known for her raw, confrontational portraits and unsentimental street photography, Model rejected beauty, elegance, and idealization in favor of truth, intensity, and presence. Born in Vienna and later working in Paris and New York, Model turned her camera toward subjects many photographers avoided: excess, aging bodies, awkwardness, arrogance, vulnerability, and power. From wealthy vacationers on the French Riviera to passersby in New York City, her photographs confront viewers with the physical and psychological reality of her subjects. Beyond her own work, Model’s influence expanded enormously through her teaching. As a longtime instructor at the New School in New York, she shaped generations of photographers — most notably Diane Arbus — instilling a philosophy that prioritized honesty, e...