What sticks out to me— and what I think sticks out to everyone— about this book isn’t the photos. These are definitely good photos, but it’s the narrative surrounding them that makes it moving, engaging. As the cover says— it captures the spirit of a city. Each photo is accompanied by a few words, and as we slowly lead through the pages a place emerges in our minds. This is a photo book less about the final product— the photo- than the journey. What was it like stopping these people to ask for a photo, what did they say? At the very least we know that they didn’t mind having their photo taken, often they loved it. We build a city in our minds of people happy to stop and chat, to take a pic and have a little fun. To show off their identity. It’s lovely.
Brandon Stanton‘s journey is just as fascinating as the stories he captures. From a newbie behind the lens to the mastermind behind Humans of New York, his evolution is as captivating as the portraits themselves. What’s truly remarkable is Stanton’s genuine curiosity and his knack for putting people’s stories above everything else.
What makes Humans of New York truly stand out is Stanton’s approach. He’s not just snapping pictures; he’s delving into people’s lives, drawing out their stories with empathy and respect. With each page turn, you can feel his dedication to uncovering the human experience, one encounter at a time.
For budding street photographers, Stanton’s journey is a beacon of hope. It’s a reminder that success isn’t just about the technicalities of photography—it’s about connecting with people on a deeper level. By following Stanton’s lead, aspiring photographers can learn the art of storytelling and the importance of genuine human connection.
Humans of New York isn’t just a photo book; it’s a celebration of humanity. Through Stanton’s lens, we’re reminded that every person has a story worth sharing, and every encounter is an opportunity for connection and understanding. It’s a book that inspires us to see the world with fresh eyes and embrace the beauty of diversity and resilience.
About the Book: In the summer of 2010, Brandon Stanton embarked on a mission to create a photographic census of New York City. Armed with his camera, he traversed the city, covering thousands of miles on foot, to capture the stories of its inhabitants. What began as a blog, “Humans of New York,” has now grown into a cultural phenomenon with over a million followers. This book brings together four hundred color photos, including exclusive portraits and new stories, showcasing the diverse and resilient spirit of New York City.
Product Details:
- Title: Humans of New York
- Author: Brandon Stanton
- Publisher: St Martins Press
- ISBN: 9781250038821
- Format: Hardcover
- Category: Photography – Pictorial, Sociology
- Publication Date: 01/05/2014
- Pages: 304
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