I am a professional photographer because it is the best way I know to earn the money I require to take care of my wife and children.
Irving PennRead
Sensitive people faced with the prospect of a camera portrait put on a face they think is one they would like to show the world very often what lies behind the facade is rare and more wonderful than the subject knows or dares to believe.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote highlights the contrast between the facade people present to the world and their true, often more beautiful selves.
Irving Penn's quote suggests that sensitive individuals often feel the need to put on a mask when it comes to being photographed, choosing to present a curated version of themselves to the world. However, beneath this surface lies a depth and beauty that is more profound than they may recognize or have the courage to showcase. This reflection points to the complexity of human identity and the often hidden treasures that individuals possess, urging us to look beyond appearances.
Themes
FacadeIdentitySelf-PerceptionBeautySensitivity
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about self-image and societal expectations at a mental health awareness event.
More from Irving Penn
All quotes →I've tried a few times to depart from what I know I can do, and I've failed. I've tried to work outside the studio, but it introduces too many variables that I can't control. I'm really quite narrow, you know.
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I can get obsessed by anything if i look at it long enough. That's the curse of being a photographer.
Irving PennRead
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