Auto Focus: The Self-Portrait in Contemporary Photography

by Susan Bright

Auto Focus features a dazzling array of self-portraits by seventy-five of the world’s foremost contemporary photographers. Photography writer and curator Susan Bright provides a clear guide through this significant and dynamic genre, showing how issues of identity―whether national, sexual, racial, personal, or artistic―are key to understanding the work of many of today’s leading photographers. This lavishly illustrated, accessible survey is organized into five thematic diaristic and autobiographical images; pictures of the body; the use of masks and masquerade; the return to studio portraiture and the photographic album; and performance, both public and private. An informative illustrated introduction explains the history of the photographic self-portrait from the 1840s to the late twentieth century, providing an invaluable context for the recent surge in artists’ images of themselves. From intimate images of introspection and those that consciously challenge notions of ethnicity and sexuality to dramatic, stylized photographs of dreamlike scenarios, Auto Focus shows how one of the longest-established artistic genres continues to fascinate artists today.

Genres: Photography, Art, Nonfiction

224 pages, Hardcover

First published August 1, 2010

Reviews

[Angela Tolsma · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book while working on a photo project. While the language used is a little intense overall I am so happy to be introduce to so man interesting self portrait projects and ideas. Favorites were Jemma Stehli and Elina Brotherus.

[Agnė Bernotaitė · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adore this book to pieces, from visuals to academic analyses and language. Somehow everything falls in so beautifully and enriches my personality in many ways. It might not be for everyone but for those who it is are lucky.

[Diana · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautiful book dedicated to contemporary photographic self-portraits. A number of expected artists are included here alongside other less expected choices, which makes it a good survey of the practice at the beginning of the 21st century. Also interesting to see the range of methods photographers use to capture their own likenesses, and the themes that reoccur throughout the book.

[Valarie · Rating 3 out of 5]

A very interesting collection of photos with photographers' explanations, but overall it was too pompous for my taste.