Books: Photographer's Paradise {jean-pierre laffont}
February 22, 2015
What made turbulent America a paradise for
photographer and author of
Photographer's Paradise: Turbulent America 1960-1990
Jean-Pierre Laffont?
The unmistakable freedom granted to Laffont
to capture moments from every walk of life
in every state of the union.
is a riveting personal and historical portrait of America
from the lens of a photographer best known for
his international stories.
by Jean-Pierre Laffont (Glitterati, 2014)
Because Laffont's photos remained unpublished and forgotten
for so long, their significance in today's world increases.
When Jeanne-Pierre Laffont began taking pictures
as a photojournalist in the 1960's, he had no idea
that what he was reporting and recording was not
simply news.
The work would become historical since much
of what he photographed no longer exists.
Of the photos Laffont snapped of the return of Apollo XI, the rise of Black Power, and coverage of the Ku Klux Klan, he says,
"These photographs also made me realize that I was very lucky then, working in total freedom. I could probably not work with the same freedom today."
Laffont in front of Turbulent America's book wall
Photographer's Paradise: Turbulent America 1960-1990
is a wonder not just because of
the journalist's access (to everything from women's
Jello wrestling to the Kent State shooting protest)
but because it so powerfully honors the diversity,
turbulence and resiliency in America.
Peace to you right where you are.
3 comments
Michele these are some stunning photographs, and what am amazing life he's led. Now that I'm taking photos (or trying to) I can appreciate the level of skill it takes to capture those intimate, emotionally charged moments. Thanks for sharing his work.
ReplyDeleteWow .. so much emotion and intensity here Michele. His work is incredible and really captures some defining moments in American history. Thanks for sharing his work.
ReplyDeleteit's so amazing that it is difficult to believe this photographer had access to so many incredible historical moments. photography has the ability to freeze a moment, an emotion, a defeat...in a way that words and other art forms cannot.
ReplyDeleteYour comments add to the beauty...thanks in advance for your kindness.