The Unforgettable Photograph

July 15, 2013
This approachable volume invites photographers of all skill levels to step up their game through creative challenges, such as “Shoot the Moment,” “Move Your Eye,” “Feel the Rhythm,” and “Embrace Intimacy.” Each of the titular “ideas, tips and secrets” then uses for reference a shot taken by Lange himself, whose work has appeared in Esquire, GQ, the New York Times, and other publications. Lange’s candid approach deserves credit for humanizing picture taking by deliberately emphasizing the medium’s poetic possibilities over its technical aspects. The book’s conversational tone makes for an enjoyable read. Under the 80th of his 226 tips, Lange discusses his image of four girls jumping off a lifeguard stand 10 feet above the sand, admiring how one “is hanging back, having her own moment, afraid to make the leap,” thus giving “the fearlessness of the others more impact.” This charming book provides a fresh approach and offers assignments for those new to the craft. The book will also appeal to seasoned photographers looking for new ways to capture the moments around them in a more meaningful and personal way. More than 300 photos. Agent: Mark Reiter, Reiter Agency.