Champagne Moments of the Magnum Mavericks

Having just spent a magnificent 2 weeks travelling across the Baltic nations, it was a lovely surprise to stumble on the Fotografiska museum in Tallinn, Estonia. Located in the bohemian neighbourhood of Telliskivi, a stone's throw from the city's historical centre, it was satisfying to see my profession and fellow lensmen and women acknowledged so wholeheartedly.

Particular focus was given to two members of the prestigious Magnum co-operative, an organisation which consists of the world's best photographers, telling visual stories of people across the globe and the events and issues associated with them.

The first Magnum alumni to be featured was street photographer, Bruce Gilden. The collection of pictures was chosen by Bruce and himself and concentrated on those members in society who have little representation and/or are depicted in a negative manner. With use of strong flash lighting, every line, scar and blemish was visible on the face of each subject, creating a graphic and powerful set of images.

The other pro championed by the museum was Elliott Erwitt whose collection had a much more subtle feel to it, almost as if he had amassed his differing bodies of photos by accident. Museums, dogs, political leaders and celebrities were part of the variety depicted, his talent for story-telling clear to see.

An unexpected highlight of my overseas jaunt and complete vindication that standing around waiting for a moment that catches your eye to happen, sometimes for a long period of time, is necessary and worthwhile in order to capture the desired image.

#fotografiska #photography #magnum #elliotterwitt #brucegilden #tallinn #estonia @tallinnofficial @MagnumPhotos @elliott_erwitt @erwittElliott @brucegilden