My Big List of Photography Videos
Watching photographers do their thing
I woke up early again this morning. Naturally, I went straight for my phone and fired up my YouTube — something I find myself doing more and more these days. On the surface, algorithms seem like nasty beasts, but frequently, they put good stuff in front of me, which means they can’t be all bad, right?
That was the case today when this short film about photographer Todd Hido greeted me at the top of my newsfeed. There must be more independent filmmaking about photography today than ever in the medium's history, and YouTube makes these movies easy to find and see. It’s lucky for those of us who love pictures because it’s a wonderful way to learn. I love it.
As a habit, I drop the photography videos that catch my eye into my Big List of Photography Videos playlist. I can’t remember if I have shared this here previously, but I thought I’d pay it forward and send you the link. For those of you hooked on YouTube videos (like me), it’s a jackpot of photography goodies, and there is a LOT to look at. There are nearly 400 videos in the mix and I am constantly adding to it. I would love to hear your recommendations. Are there videos you think I should include? Please drop me a line by email or in the comments. Thanks in advance!
GRAIN: Analog Renaissance on October 17
Speaking of photography movies, Jim Kreul and I are kicking off our documentary film series at the Arts + Literaterature Laboratory with a GRAIN: Analog Reinassance screening in Madison next Thursday, October 17. Here’s some background on the film:
Grain celebrates analog photography by showing its ups and downs in real-world scenarios and tells the story of artistic commitment, discovery, and romance. Whether it's a fashion house seeking to bring a new edge to their creative work, an amateur perusing eBay for the perfect vintage Polaroid, or an influencer attempting to capture a comforting retro aesthetic on social media, analog photography has piqued the interest of people everywhere. Is this resurgence a backlash against digital photography? Is it just a trend perpetuated by our desire for authenticity in an increasingly superficial world? Or is it something else entirely?
This is a FREE event, and everyone is welcome to attend. You can RSVP here—special thanks to our partners at PhotoMidwest for co-presenting. I hope you can make it!
Excellent, Andy. This is a stunning list. I use various videos in my teaching and the students love them! Keep 'em coming! Thank you!
I didn't see it in the list as I scrolled through. It's a movie made by Virginia Adams the day they climbed to make the iconic Half Dome photo in the 1920s. The climbing technique with smooth leather boots is awesome.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C41s5N8_fCc