The Genius of W. Eugene Smith

[@hiramabiff885]

Wonderful presentation. I have been a working photographer for almost 51 years. I had the incredible opportunity to spend time with Gene many years ago. His work, more than any other photographer, inspired and influenced me to this day.

[@florriehathorn1890]

More than anything, it shows the total sacrifice great photojournalists make every day for the benefit of revealing hard truths and carrying around heavy stuff! They are true heroes and need more credit! This was extremely enlightening!

[@iammarcdaniel]

I was waiting for this one, Smith was a legend.

[@TatianaHopper]

Indeed he really was!

[@theowlfromduolingo7982]

Legends never die

[@harryp6312]

You put so much work into these, all that amazing archive footage, biography research.... Thank you Tatiana!

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you so much for your kind words Harry! I’ll keep it coming :)

[@acronymphotography]

Much like photography itself, you’re making videos that will have long lasting appeal. I think your channel will be a reference point for many future photographers, artists and be a reference point to historians. I find your gentle, warm and humble style a refreshing change and the content ever- inspiring.

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you so much, my plan has been always to make content that lasts. I appreciate the kind words and thank you so much for taking your time to watch the video! All the best.

[@Mark-Book]

"The images we have access to these days represent everything but failure!" Could not agree more. 9:12 A masterpiece among a thousand others.

[@colinbradbury2334]

Smith was simply one of the best, if not THE best, 20th century documentary photographers. To do that level of work you have to care - really care - and he did. Superb video - thanks.

[@john-bloss]

Gene Smith has long been my favorite photographer. Thank you for this. It’s amazing to me that you can convey so much of what made him the genius and dedication of this great story teller.

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you so much Jim! Glad I was able to do it and thank you for watching!

[@Franco_Deleo]

It’s so much work putting together each of these videos and I appreciate all of them!

[@JoeJoe4P]

Hi Tatiana! I have to say, that this video I believe is one of your finest. I enjoyed your presentation immensely. Smith’s photos are incredible as was his life. Having seen your video after watching the movie of his life and work at Minamata, I have to say that they, the filmmakers and Johnny Depp, nailed it. Your documentaries and recommendations continue to hit new levels. Thank you for all of your hard work! Please know that it is very much appreciated! ✌️🌹

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you so much Joe! I’m so glad you enjoyed both this video and the film I think the film definitely provides a great insight into who he was - I read his wive’s letter (Aileen) and she talked about his extensive battle with depression but also how impulsive he was. The movie captured that in my opinion. Thank you for keeping an eye for the videos and my recommendations! All the best 🤍

[@johnpeterson7264]

Eugene smith - in my view - the absolute pinnacle of the serious photographer on a mission to document the beauty and the tragedy of the human condition and to make the world a better place.

[@aes53]

Smith is, in my view, one of the most significant documentary photographers of the 20th century. Like all of your documentaries, this one was as exquisite as a polished gem. The late photography writer, Jim Hughs produced an exhaustive biography of Smith called Shadow and Substance. It is sadly out of print but it appears used copies can be found for not that much money. Also, there is an old but very good documentary with the wonderful title "Photography Made Difficult". It was put out by Public Broadcasting here in the US as part of their American Masters Series. I don't know how hard that would be to find.

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you for sharing that I need to get my hands on that book super interested!

[@aes53]

@@TatianaHopper, I'm in the US but found several copies in the $40 price range on Amazon. I suspect UK Amazon or other used book dealers will be similar.

[@TheFPSChannel]

Seen his photos without ever appreciating their single source and his genius. Thank you for this. ❤

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you for watching 🙏🏻

[@MarkH.2018]

His shots are literally unbelievable

[@Warren-h2i]

Tatiana, I have always been moved by Smith's images... I am now similarly moved by your wonderful biography of the man himself. Thank you!

[@Regour]

This is the most amazing documentary about Eugine Smith , thank you so much for creating this!

[@DonaldGibson-bg1pq]

So many of the very fine artists, future leaders, actors, came from the American Mid-west. They had a desire to see the world, to really experience life, and to help man-kind. The original staff of photographers; for Life Magazine; broke new ground. Eugene Smith’s work amazes me. His ability to capture candid moments/ images of people on film. His fine composition. Your so right! His work is; the result of the hard work, of a tireless Guinness. Recording the human condition. Being objective, and subjective at the same time.

[@sojourner829]

Love your videos Tatiana. I only watch a few photography channels and yours is among them, and probably the one that I feel is most consistently in line with my way of looking and feeling about photography. Lovely work, presented in a lovely tone and obviously commitment to both photography and its history. Thank you.

[@jaychow94]

Minamata is Johnny Depp's greatest performance. Especially considering it was during the whole thing with the court case and him being blacklisted. An incredible movie, and also a wonderful photography lesson by you!

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you so much Jay, glad you enjoyed it and also yes I would agree Johnny Depp gave a great performance!

[@donaldnord2895]

Not only the exciting dynamics of light, does he capture but a current of emotion and deep thought as well....a brilliant mind and a powerful artist!

[@TatianaHopper]

Agreed Donald! 🤝🏻

[@drewdetsch5268]

Thank you Tatiana for this excellent film. I too am a great admirer of Eugene Smith and believe you have done real justice to him and his work with this film. Thanks again

[@simonwood1461]

I had never before heard of W. Eugene Smith, so thank you for such an illuminating documentary.

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you for watching Simon!

[@7m_sec]

another awesome movie, regardless E. Eugene Smith was a genius. i love your presentations.

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you so much!

[@MrVivasvictor]

Thank you very much for the wonderful video.Eugene Smith is my idol about photography and I never stop looking to learn a little bit more about him.Thank you again.

[@chris.staats]

Great video essay on one of my favorite photographers. I remember discovering his work in one of my first dark room classes and he has had a lasting impression.

[@jacobthomson9369]

Thank you for a most interesting dossier on a man I had no knowledge of; but whose photography has really inspired me.

[@abovemadness]

Oh my lord!! I’ve been shooting for some time and this is my first time learning about this wonderful photographer, absolutely amazing work to say the least.

[@PerEng2405]

Amazing photographer - and equally amazing documentary. Brilliant work T. Hopper.

[@OwenEDell]

You knocked this one out of the park. Great job. I appreciate all you are doing.

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you so much Owen 🤝🏻

[@michaelmottlau5941]

Such a well done portrait of a great photographer

[@michaelkonkel4394]

Thank you so much for this! I did not know about him - until now. These photographs are unreal. Thank you! Thank you for introducing me to this great photographer.

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you for tuning in and watching Michael! I’m glad you learned about Smith, his work is just great!

[@Monochromatic77]

I think you have one of the best photography channels on KZbin. There are so many bad 'street photography' channels or boring gear channels... this one cuts thru the noise. Much appreciated!

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you so much for your kind words I really appreciate it, I’m going to keep working 🤝🏻

[@alandargie9358]

Another great video, thanks Tatiana! An excellent summary of his projects and analysis. Personally I love this roughly 20 minute format.

[@anguyen800]

Your documentary works is getting better and better every time I stop by . I would say a brilliant research in a short documentary work . I have been waiting for E. Smith for a long time . Thank you Tatiana .

[@davidburchettephotography6513]

I remember an article in LIFE magazine about the mercury problem. I remember that photo of the mother holding her child, deformed from the mercury, in her arms. What a powerful image...as are so many from his work. Thank you for this video, this story.

[@BillWittman]

Wonderful job - I feel you revealed his creative spirit by focusing on the light of his achievements -not dwelling on the accompanying and often tragic darkness.

[@darryljungen8307]

Thank you, Tatiana! These are by far my favorite type of video you do. Thank you so much for all of the effort you put into your work.

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you for your kind words Darryl! 🙏🏻

[@jhhayden]

Tatiana! This was a wonderful piece. I am old enough to remember Life and Look magazines and the early photography magazines. I remember being stunned when I first saw a W. Eugene Smith photo in one of those publications. Keep up the good work here.

[@syracuselux1450]

Best one yet! Thank you ! Mr Smith was not know to me and his work resonates so much to my spirit.

[@matthewdallanegra7569]

This is an exceptional documentary! Beautiful! Please keep doing this. It has already been done, but please feature Gary Winogrand!

[@carmelofaziotanatologo3620]

Cinematic and almost comics style photography. Super human represent in his work. Very interesting view of the world. Thanks for your meticulous work

[@chrisloomis1489]

Sharing the Life of humanity ... this is High Art. Models , fashion parties and events nice , but to find and convey the soul of humanity. I thirst for this.

[@tomastapia8078]

Thank you so much for sharing! What an amazing story of Eugene. He´s such an inspiration even though he had a very tough life. Greetings from Chile

[@photofervorphotography4997]

Stirring - well done - a beautiful and reverential tribute.

[@alangreenwell4246]

Thank you thank you thank you. On a dull dark day you have brought some light into my life with a brilliant piece on my all time favourite photographer.

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you so much Alan! Long time no see I hope all is well with you and Tam!

[@avoidesolation]

No words, your editing and writing at this point is just mind blowing. Thanks you so much for your work.

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you my friend it means a lot 🤍

[@sidvicious3129]

Hi Tatiana, you are putting the proverbial shot in the arm that Photography and Photographers need!!!

[@TatianaHopper]

Thanks so much!

[@maureenlee1940]

Tatiana, thank you for creating this inspiring video about Eugene Smith. You've piqued my interest in learning more about him, and I'm eager to watch the recommended video and delve deeper into his photographs. His dedication to crafting photo essays on subjects he cares about, especially in highlighting the silent struggles of marginalized and oppressed communities, is truly inspiring. Thank you again for introducing us to this legendary artist and his impactful work

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you so much for taking the time to watch the video and for leaving your thoughts, I appreciate it!

[@neon___am]

A beautiful capsule documentary about an outstanding photographer. Thank you for making and sharing this, Tatiana.

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you for watching!

[@SCHOOLOFLIGHT]

I have grown to love your work. Thanks so much..

[@J.AshleyNixon]

Excellent documentary, Tatiana. One of your best.

[@Joseph_Greco]

You outdid yourself on this one! 🔥🔥👏👏 Love the side by side comparison to the master painters. He really is the patron saint of photojournalists. An incredible human being. Thanks for doing this one. I've been waiting for it and you did not disappoint. Cheers! ☮

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you so much Joseph, I’m glad you enjoyed that part of the video, it’s honestly undeniable. Thank you for watching! ✨✌🏻

[@mixschrecks3839]

A stunning homage to an under appreciated photographer. Very moving.

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you so much ✨

[@b991228]

There are good photographers and then there is W. Eugene Smith. No other photographer is the equal. A singular style. His work illustrates that greatness can only be attained by embracing your own unique personality. Something only you may attain.

[@JHurrenPhotography]

Wow wow wow! I just discovered his work last week and have been devouring it and the story of his life. Excited to watch this when I get home

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you James! I hope you enjoy it 🤝🏻

[@1946gsp]

Very well done! A monograph well worth watching and sharing

[@williamburkholder769]

Amazing work about one of my LIFETIME inspirations. I first learned about Gene Smith in 1967, when I was 12. I've seen bits and pieces of his work throughout my life, since, but this is a very good dive into his life. Two thumbs up! Keep it up.

[@habuerunt]

One of the best presentations of the work of this genius. Your time and effort in making this video is evident and greatiy appreciated!.

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you so much 🙏🏻

[@Usiris23]

Always love your song choices, so fitting.

[@artemisXsidecross]

The matching of Jean Ritchie and W. Eugene Smith along with your editing and narrative made for an excellent presentation. Well done.

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you so much! I also thought her voice and his images were a great match! Thank you for watching!

[@artemisXsidecross]

@@TatianaHopper 👍

[@ricb4195]

This was great and enlightening. Thanks for making this kind of videos. His body of work is amazing and I don't recall ever seeing it previously!

[@diforbes]

I have been tardy in not commenting how much I enjoy your videos! Another fine one, Ms. Hopper.

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you so much Dean!

[@scottj9773]

So good... pretty tempted to gush... thanks for all your work, the content and for sharing. Love your work😍

[@SteveMillerhuntingforfood]

That was remarkable. Thank you for producing this story, really exceptional.

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you so much for watching Steve!

[@pauladamsmedia7707]

This was very enjoyable and educational; very well made! Thank you for making this content!

[@inphotoaustralia]

The music you use on your videos are absolutely amazing! thank you for all the content, its always so inspiring.

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you! This one when I first heard it I thought fitted like a glove!

[@mid90s75]

What a legend both this vid and the man himself, thanks for recommending the movie I will give it a watch!

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you! Hope you enjoy it, link is in the description!

[@sevsuk2011]

Hi Tatiana, really enjoyed this video. Highly polished, the comparison to Caravaggio and the renaissance period is very thought provoking. Im embarrassed to not have seen the film McNamara, but i will shortly. Keep up this excellent work. Fantastic stuff. Steve.

[@dagzimmer4129]

Excellent - Eugene Smith‘s life and work, but also your presentation of him. You put so much love into your work, Tatiana. Thank you so much for being such an inspiration.

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you so much! I really appreciate it and I will continue to put love and effort into more videos :)

[@dagzimmer4129]

Looking forward to your next creation. ❤

[@margareteastham4957]

Completely admire all your time and effort in getting all the history about artist. Truly appreciate it. Peace and respect.

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you so much Margaret!

[@trevorvivian]

Tatiana, this is video is superb, thank you for excellent analysis and presentation.

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you Trevor!

[@125f8]

The way Smith shot is what I attain to do, I was a digital photographer but have now gone back to film. It is the true medium.

[@jvo8673]

what a well crafted story... as a huge fan of Smith, I've watched the movies, (jazz loft, minimata, video's), and read all i could find about him... your video provided some fresh insight and facts. Thank you for the concise and articulate view.

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you for watching!

[@stephengomez2766]

My all time favorite photographer. His biography is wild. Great video as always.

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you Stephen! His life story is indeed wild!

[@derricksansome236]

Thoroughly enjoyed this presentation, definitely one of the very best photography videos I have watched in a long time, thank you.

[@TatianaHopper]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@ruidanielabrunheiro]

Great job on this video. W. Eugene Smith is my favorite and you’ve done a great job paying homage to a true artist.

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you so much Rui! Glad I was able to do justice 🤝🏻

[@tonygreenwoodN10]

A great video on a powerful, important, photographic genius - thank you!

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you Tony, I’m glad you’ve enjoyed it!

[@silenttramping]

Very well done Tatiana. Thank You for showcasing as many photos as possible. It reminds me of artist essays Ted Forbes did on his channel years back. Some of photos were zoomed in with slow pan/tilt but entire photo was never shown, feels like it'd be great to see.

[@markodenda]

This was amazing and just looking at selected images, quite emotional. Thank you!

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you so much!

[@BenEdwards984]

What a wonderfully educational piece - I learned so much! Thanks Tatiana, this is one of your best yet 👌🏻

[@nancycarroll7452]

You are truly a master at what you do. Thank you for sharing such wonderful stories and photographs with us. Your channel is by far the best out there.

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you so much for your kind words Nancy and for the super thanks 🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@robgoodwin6750]

What a glorious collection of some truly breathtaking work. I've seen some of the images you included, but there were many others I saw here for the first time. Thank you for sharing your perspectives, your scholarly research, and your obvious hard work with us. I share Joe Joe's thoughts below: each of your documentaries seems more inspiring and more engaging than the previous one; you have created a unique niche for yourself in this space, and we photographers are all the better for it. I also share Joe Joe's gratitude for the work you do and the passion you have for photography. Thank you.

[@michaelr.filipic7749]

I came across your channel by chance and watched some of your videos. They represent art in themselves, incredible! Magnificent work, you've found a new avid follower with this. Keep up your excellent work!

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you so much Michael! I’m so glad you enjoy the channel and thank you for spending your time watching the videos :)

[@lawrencedgriffin]

An incredible life with incredible results. I often wonder if photography is my blessing or my curse and I am certain Mr.Smith at some point thought the same. If only I can achieve 1% of his accomplishments I will be happy. Thanks for the video, you’re doing great.

[@magnusa.5599]

absolutely fantastic! i learn something new every time i open your channel. this one and koudelka were both amazing!

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you so much Magnus!

[@williamshaffer9216]

You hsave produced a wonderful video on my favorite photographer! I was so pleased to see that you lead off with "Spanish Wake"! The photograph of the deceased laid out on the table surrounded by relatives is one of my all-time favorite photographs. I have read many accounts of how Smith produced (or as others have said) manipulated the image. Regardless of his method(s), he produced a beautiful photograph. I feel he was one of the most influential photographers of the 20th Century. He was a Photographer Who Cared! And he paid a dear price for his compassion. Thanks for your presentation!

[@TatianaHopper]

You summarise it well William, I agree he was one of those who really cared. All the best!

[@MacValdee]

Wow this was incredible! Wasn’t familiar with his work but definitely want to look into it more. Thank you for putting this together

[@rpigeon8]

Thanks again Tatiana! Great video presenting someone that should be known more and better. Photos are fantastic and they "speak" about life.

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you for watching Robert!

[@emilianoa4]

A great documentary on a great photographer on one of the few and most interesting channels about photography on youtube

[@NathaliaWestmacott]

Amazing! I would love to see one of your documentaries focused on the life and work of the installation artist Marina Abramovic.

[@chriko22]

I really like the atmosphere he put on his photos, I think he is in my top 10 favorite photographer

[@bngr_bngr]

Great video. I love Eugene’s photography. His best biography was put out several years ago on PBS. Of course the recent Depp movie was great.

[@martinagiusstreetphotography]

I have just heard your podcast on Street Photography Magazine with Bob Patterson and as he said, I came to have a look at your KZbin channel. I have watched this video and I say it is pretty awesome and now I am subscribed to your channel and hooked. Thanks for sharing.

[@johnkelly-pd3vq]

Superb video on a true master photographer, love the intro with the music, I have watched it twice now, inspiring work

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you so much John! 🙏🏻

[@johnkelly-pd3vq]

Sorry I forgot to reply to your query about working in photography in Ireland/Wicklow. I don't know what area of photography you want to get work in, I do a lot of press/pr, festivals, getting out of doing weddings now, good money but fed up with the whole process,

[@mat3053]

My favorite photography channel :)

[@boarini2003]

Your channel is just incredible. Thank you.

[@Rus1034]

Excellent essay ! Very inspiring. Thank you

[@hunterdoingthings3894]

I look forward to all of your videos. Thank you for doing these.

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you!

[@johnwatson8067]

Great mini doc, Tatiana. Really enjoyed your run through the life and work of, IMHO, one of the greatest photographers of all time. As always, very informative and extremely professional in its presentation. Thanks for a very fine piece of viewing. Thanks for bringing the film Minamata to my attention too; I really need to check that out. Not sure if you've seen it but there's also a good feature length documentary on Smith's time at the Jazz Loft, called [not very imaginatively] The Jazz Loft According to W Eugene Smith. Great photography and wonderful music, my idea of heaven. Cheers.

[@jazzoiler]

You made my day and helped me to find the inspiration I missed. Thank you for your amazing work ❤

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you for taking your time to watch! Glad I could help through the video 🙏🏻

[@danielscheerer3032]

Thank you for the education - really an amazing lifetime of work! Keep them coming! 🙏

[@TatianaHopper]

Thank you I appreciate it!