Richard Kalvar on the Streets

FotoTV has developed FotoTV-Tech, a forum within the FotoTV platform dedicated to covering all photography related topics such as, prominent photographers, camera hardware, software services and products. For this further installment of FotoTV Tech founder Marc Ludwig speaks with legendary Magnum photographer, Richard Kalvar to discuss his work and technique.

Kalvar, a member of Magnum since the 1970’s, is a classic, black & white street photographer uses Kodak tri-x film, “for the unbelievable grain and rich grey tones”, he boasts. Although he considers the term “street-photography” to be anywhere from a bar or restaurant, to a visit to someone’s house, his photographs always reveal an intimate and most likely, a humorous setting.

Kalvar has an exceptional eye and a talent for catching unexpected moments between human interactions, be it two people arguing or talking on the street or two grown men dressed as daisies. He shares numerous techniques and gives guidelines on how photographers can best make themselves “invisible” when photographing on the street. One interesting story Kalvar shares is that of being accosted on the street during shooting for FotoTV and he also gives valuable tips on how photographers can make the best of almost any situation. Kalvar also talks about his latest project “Earthlings”, a photo book that showcases the best of his work throughout his extensive career.