Kertész on Kertész: A Self-Portrait

by André Kertész

This is an unusual book in that the text is by the photographer himself, drawn from Peter Adam's interviews with Kertész for the BBC TV series, "Great Master Photographers." Here Kertész comments about his photographs and life during his years in his native Hungary, in Paris in the '20s and '30s, and in New York from 1936 until his death in 1985.

Droll, poignant, gently mysterious, and always arresting, these photographs of Manhattan scenes and people, of yesterday's irretrievably romantic Paris and Budapest, of sinuous nudes and celebrated artists mark his genius with the 35mm camera.

Genres: Photography, Art, Nonfiction

120 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1985

About the author

André Kertész (French: [kɛʁtɛs]; 2 July 1894 – 28 September 1985), born Kertész Andor, was a Hungarian-born photographer known for his groundbreaking contributions to photographic composition and the photo essay. In the early years of his career, his then-unorthodox camera angles and style prevented his work from gaining wider recognition. Kertész never felt that he had gained the worldwide recognition he deserved. Today he is considered one of the seminal figures of photojournalism.[

Reviews

[Michael P. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a well-done compilation of Kertesz's work from his early days in Hungary onward. The book concentrates mostly on his work in Paris during the 1920s and 1930s, and it gives insight not only into Kertesz's photography but also the Paris art scene of the period, including Kertesz's interactions with other artists. It also showcases Kertesz's excellent use of perspective, with some of the most impressive being his pictures taken from far above the subject. Finally, the book, published shortly before his death, includes some interesting commentary from Kertesz.

[Jeff Clay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good overview of Kertesz' three "periods" as defined by place of residence. Very nice photo reproductions and Kertesz' comments on his own works are priceless.

[Mckinley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful collection of black and whites from Hungary (1910s), Paris (1920s) and New York (1930s).