Elliott Erwitt: Master of The Decisive Moment
Elliott Erwitt is a photographer known for his portraiture and ironic candid photography. He shot black and white film, that also being the most common mode of photography during his career. His studies in photography began when his family moved to the United States, though his career in photography stretches throughout the world. Working under many other well known photographers, as well as agencies like that of Magnum, Erwitt has made a large body of work that is unique in its style.
Being a photographer myself, I have found Erwitt's work to be rather influential for me. His ability to make a photograph at the perfect moment is nearly unparalleled. As coined by Henri Cartier-Bresson, the term "The Decisive Moment" describes the peak of action within a photograph. A moment earlier or later, and the photo would be less in meaning. Erwitt's ability to constantly produce a photograph at the perfect moment is something that I strive to achieve.
This is a link to Elliott Erwitt's personal website/portfolio. There is a large body of his work available to view or purchase.
This links to Magnum's website with photos made by Elliott Erwitt when he worked for Magnum.
This link has more of a description on "The Decisive Moment" as well as the man who coined the term, Henri Cartier-Bresson.