Robert Frank quotes

Robert Frank was a Swiss-American photographer and filmmaker, renowned for his influential photographic book "The Americans." His unique visual style and candid approach transformed documentary photography in the 20th century. He became a pivotal figure in modern visual storytelling and inspired generations of photographers. Here are 8 of his quotes:

There is one thing the photograph must contain, the humanity of the moment. This kind of photography is realism. But realism is not enough - there has to be vision, and the two together can make a good photograph.

Robert Frank

My photographs are not planned or composed in advance, and I do not anticipate that the onlooker will share my viewpoint. However, I feel that if my photograph leaves an image on his mind, something has been accomplished.

Robert Frank

I have been frequently accused of deliberately twisting subject matter to my point of view. Above all, I know that life for a photographer cannot be a matter of indifference. Opinion often consists of a kind of criticism. But criticism can come out of love.

Robert Frank

I always say that I don't want to be sentimental, that the photographs shouldn't be sentimental, and yet, I am conscious of my sentimentality.

Robert Frank

When people look at my pictures I want them to feel the way they do when they want to read a line of a poem twice.

Robert Frank

The eye should learn to listen before it looks.

Robert Frank

Above all, I know that life for a photographer cannot be a matter of indifference.

Robert Frank