While wandering the fabulous international photographic exhibit at Paris Photo last November, I watched as two photographers were snapping photos of this man. Realizing he must be someone of importance, I motioned one of the photographers over and asked who he was. I couldn't understand the name as he had an accent and it was very noisy. He must have seen this and added, "He is ia Magnum photographer." That I understood and so I asked him to repeat the name. "Elliott Erwitt." I all but screamed. I"m very familiar with his remarkable work and even attended a small Erwitt exhibit at La Hune a few years back. I literally chased this man down. I asked the woman who was with him if I could take a quick photo. She answered, "Yes, make it quick." I did! After, I put my hand on his shoulder and said, "Merci, I am so honored." This will always be a favorite Paris memory for me.
I saw the two photographers later and they were happy I got the photo. I told them I didn't think he was so glad to see me but I was thrilled nonetheless.
Erwitt was in Paris for the signing of his just released book of his images of Cuba taking many years ago.
6 comments:
That's a wonderful photo - I feel I really see the man.
Quite a story! Terrific portrait!
Brilliant story! That's my favorite part about taking photos--the stories that go with them.
Well, you got a terrific shot out of it.
Oh wow, we have a few photo books by him. Terrific shot you made of him!
I love the look on his face!
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