Henri Cartier-Bresson's famous 1932 photograph, 'Behind the Gare Saint-Lazare,' is widely seen as the embodiment of his 'decisive moment' philosophy. However, new insights reveal that the legendary street photographer deviated from his own strict principles to create this iconic image, particularly regarding cropping and framing.
The photograph, which captures a man leaping over a puddle, is celebrated for its perfect timing and composition. Yet, Cartier-Bresson, a staunch opponent of cropping, actually altered the original frame after development.
Key Takeaways
- Henri Cartier-Bresson cropped 'Behind the Gare Saint-Lazare,' despite his famous opposition to the practice.
- He shot the photo without using his camera's viewfinder due to a fence blocking his view.
- The original frame included parts of a wooden fence and the bottom edge that were later removed.
- Cartier-Bresson called the image 'luck,' downplaying his skill.
The Decisive Moment and a Hidden Obstacle
Cartier-Bresson's 'decisive moment' philosophy centered on capturing fleeting reality without manipulation. He believed a photographer should frame the image perfectly in the camera, making cropping unnecessary. This principle guided much of his prolific career, laying the groundwork for modern street photography.
However, the conditions under which 'Behind the Gare Saint-Lazare' was taken forced a significant compromise. The scene, located behind the Gare Saint-Lazare train station in Paris, presented a unique challenge.
Fact: The Leica 1
Cartier-Bresson used a Leica 1 camera for this photograph. The camera's viewfinder protruded, making it impossible to look through when the lens was squeezed through the narrow gap in the fence.
A wooden fence blocked Cartier-Bresson's direct line of sight. He found a small gap in the planks, just wide enough to fit his camera lens through. This meant he could not use his viewfinder.
"The planks were like this," Cartier-Bresson once explained, gesturing to describe the fence. "And I could just fit the lens through."
This forced him to compose the shot blind, relying on instinct and his profound understanding of composition. He waited for the perfect instant, observing the scene from outside his camera's direct view.
Post-Processing and the Unseen Crop
Upon developing the film, Cartier-Bresson discovered that the frame included unwanted elements. A significant portion of the wooden fence appeared on the left side of the image. The bottom edge also contained extraneous details.
Context: Cropping in Photography
Cropping, the removal of outer parts of an image to improve framing, is a common practice in photography. However, Cartier-Bresson famously argued against it, insisting that a true photographer should achieve perfect composition in-camera.
Despite his lifelong stance against cropping, Cartier-Bresson made the decision to alter the photograph. He cropped out the intrusive fence on the left and also trimmed the bottom of the image. This act transformed the raw capture into the balanced, dynamic composition known today.
"The space between the planks was not entirely wide enough for my lens, which is the reason the picture is cut off on the left," Cartier-Bresson stated, acknowledging the technical limitation that led to the crop.
This decision highlights a practical concession by an artist whose principles were otherwise unyielding. The cropped version became the definitive image, shaping its legacy.
Legacy of an Accidental Masterpiece
'Behind the Gare Saint-Lazare' quickly rose to prominence, becoming a cornerstone of street photography. It features leading lines, subtle ripples in the water, and striking reflections that capture a moment of suspended animation.
Cartier-Bresson himself often attributed the success of the photograph to mere "luck." However, this humble assessment overlooks his profound skill and the foundational philosophy he developed. His ability to anticipate and capture such moments, even under challenging conditions, defined his career.
The image continues to inspire photographers worldwide, demonstrating the power of observation and timing. Its complex origin story adds another layer to its appeal, revealing the human element behind an apparently flawless creation. It shows that even the most disciplined artists sometimes adapt their rules for the sake of art.
Influence on Street Photography
Cartier-Bresson's approach to capturing life as it unfolds, often referred to as candid photography, profoundly influenced generations of photographers. His emphasis on intuition and quick reflexes became central to the genre.
The photograph's success, despite the technical compromises, underscores the idea that artistic vision can transcend limitations. It remains a testament to capturing the essence of a moment, regardless of the tools or obstacles faced by the photographer.
- The image's composition, reflections, and sense of movement are frequently studied in photography courses.
- It exemplifies the spontaneous nature of street photography.
- The story behind its creation offers valuable lessons on adaptability in art.
The enduring power of 'Behind the Gare Saint-Lazare' lies not just in its visual impact but also in the rich narrative of its making. It is a reminder that even strict artistic principles can sometimes bend to the demands of a unique opportunity, leading to an even greater artistic achievement.