Artist Research: Elliott Erwitt Intentional + Candid Photography Visit the website: https://www jacksonfineart.com/artists/elliot -erwitt/coney-island-1975 [ Look at the photograph , USA. New York City.1975 (sometimes referred to as Coney Island, 1975) by Elliott Erwitt Study it for a moment, then answer the following questions: 1. What do you see in the photograph?Describe it in detail. __ 2. What do you think Elliott Erwitt is trying to convey in this photograph? __ humor the photograph? How? __ "This picture took quite a while to come together. It's in Coney Island. The problem was to get a bird looking in the right direction and the airplane in the right position. Luckily, it was a flyway, so there were many planes landing. But the birds were less cooperative." -Elliott Erwitt 4. Does his description of the photograph change your perception of it? If so, how? If not, why not? __ 5. How can you create a photograph that is both candid and intentional? Look at Erwitt work here: https://www .pinterest .com/w panetta/look-elliott-erwitt/ __ Pick your favorite three and describe them below.

1. **What do you see in the photograph? Describe it in detail.**<br /> In the photograph "USA New York City, 1975" by Elliott Erwitt, we see a black and white image capturing a moment at Coney Island. The foreground features a seagull perched on a wooden post, looking out towards the horizon. In the background, there is an airplane flying across the sky. The composition of the photograph is striking, with the bird and the plane creating a sense of balance and contrast between nature and human-made objects. The beach and ocean are visible, adding to the serene yet dynamic atmosphere of the scene.<br /><br />2. **What do you think Elliott Erwitt is trying to convey in this photograph?**<br /> Elliott Erwitt seems to be conveying a juxtaposition between the natural world and human technology. The seagull represents nature, while the airplane symbolizes human advancement and travel. By capturing both elements in one frame, Erwitt might be highlighting the coexistence and sometimes the clash between these two worlds. Additionally, the photograph may evoke a sense of freedom and exploration, as both the bird and the plane are associated with flight and movement.<br /><br />3. **Do you feel he adds humor to the photograph? How?**<br /> Yes, there is a subtle humor in the photograph. The humor comes from the unexpected pairing of the seagull and the airplane, almost as if they are sharing the same airspace and momentarily pausing to acknowledge each other. The bird's seemingly indifferent posture contrasts with the airplane's purposeful flight, creating a whimsical and light-hearted scene.<br /><br />4. **Does his description of the photograph change your perception of it? If so, how? If not, why not?**<br /> His description does change my perception of the photograph. Knowing that Erwitt patiently waited for the right moment when both the bird and the airplane were in the perfect positions adds a layer of appreciation for the effort and timing involved in capturing this shot. It highlights the intentionality behind what might initially appear as a spontaneous or lucky capture, emphasizing Erwitt's skill and dedication as a photographer.<br /><br />5. **How can you create a photograph that is both candid and intentional?**<br /> To create a photograph that is both candid and intentional, one must be observant and patient, ready to capture spontaneous moments while having a clear vision of the desired outcome. This involves anticipating potential interactions or compositions and being prepared to seize the moment when it occurs naturally. It also requires technical proficiency with the camera to ensure that the shot is well-composed and properly exposed. Planning and scouting locations, understanding the behavior of subjects (whether people, animals, or objects), and being adaptable to changing conditions are key components of achieving this balance.<br /><br />**Favorite Three Photographs from Elliott Erwitt:**<br /><br />1. **Paris, France, 1989 (Dog Legs)**<br /> - Description: This photograph features a small dog standing on its hind legs next to a woman's legs. The dog's pose mimics the woman's stance, creating a humorous and charming visual parallel. The black and white tones add a timeless quality to the image, and the playful interaction between the dog and the human legs captures a candid, delightful moment.<br /><br />2. **California Kiss, 1955**<br /> - Description: In this iconic photograph, a couple is seen kissing inside a car, their faces reflected in the rearview mirror. The intimate moment is framed beautifully, with the reflection adding depth and a sense of privacy. The candid nature of the kiss combined with the intentional framing creates a powerful and romantic image.<br /><br />3. **New York City, 1974 (Bulldog in Car)**<br /> - Description: This photograph shows a bulldog sitting in the driver's seat of a car, looking out the window with a serious expression. The juxtaposition of the dog's human-like demeanor and the context of it being in the driver's seat adds a humorous and endearing element to the image. The candid capture of the dog's expression makes it a memorable and engaging photograph.<br /><br />These photographs exemplify Erwitt's ability to find humor and humanity in everyday scenes, capturing moments that are both spontaneous and thoughtfully composed.