Six days in Venice in late October, a style called "Street Photography." Which means maybe as many as 100 images an hour. Trying to shoot on the shoulders of greats like Robert Frank. Or Henri Cartier Bresson, who said, "You press the button ... and you say to yourself 'One of these will be a good one'." In search of "the decisive moment."
The catalyst for the trip was a week-long class taught by Peter Turnley, who 60 Minutes showed is one of the best photojournalists in the world. His images have been on the covers of Newsweek magazine more than 40 times. He has authored four books, and does work for international media such as Paris Match, Stern and National Geographic.
Shadowing Turnley for a few hours was the best instruction. His strategy is easily described: "Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee." It is not easily copied. He weaves through crowds and and buzzes around people. He's looking for a moment, a glance, a smile, an embrace, or a subtle smile.
The week introduced me to a new style of photography ... as well as the streets, canals, alleys, markets, bridges, Cambios, and people of Venice. Imagine visiting one of the most mysterious and interesting cities and never once venturing into a museum, a 13th century palace, or even taking a gondola ride. This was not touring. This was learning.
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