Documentaries That Bring Photo Exhibitions to Life

Description: This documentary celebrates the life of Bill Cunningham, a legendary street fashion photographer for The New York Times. It's a vibrant exploration of his unique approach to capturing the essence of New York City's fashion scene.

Fact: Bill Cunningham famously refused to accept payment for his work, believing in the purity of his art. The film was a critical success, earning numerous accolades.

Description: This documentary uncovers the life of Vivian Maier, a nanny who secretly took over 100,000 photographs. Her work was only discovered after her death, revealing a hidden talent and a unique perspective on street photography.

Fact: Vivian Maier's negatives were found at an auction in Chicago. The film has sparked a global interest in her work, leading to numerous exhibitions and publications.

Description: This documentary follows the life and work of Sebastião Salgado, a Brazilian photographer known for his poignant black-and-white images. It's a profound exploration of humanity through his lens, making it an essential watch for anyone interested in the power of photography.

Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. It was co-directed by Wim Wenders, a renowned filmmaker, and Salgado's son, Juliano Ribeiro Salgado.

Description: This film provides an intimate look at James Nachtwey, one of the world's most renowned war photographers. It captures his dedication to documenting conflict and human suffering, offering a raw perspective on the impact of war through photography.

Fact: The film was shot over two years, following Nachtwey to various war zones. It won the Sundance Film Festival's Grand Jury Prize for Documentary.

Description: This film explores the work of Australian photographer Bill Henson, focusing on his controversial exhibition in 2008. It delves into the debate over art, censorship, and the boundaries of photography.

Fact: The exhibition led to a significant public outcry and legal challenges, highlighting the contentious nature of art in society.

Description: This film follows the journey of a young photographer as he travels to document the lives of people in remote areas. It's a testament to the power of photography to bridge cultural divides.

Fact: The film was shot in various locations around the world, capturing the essence of different cultures through the lens of a single photographer.

Description: This documentary offers a rare glimpse into the life and career of Annie Leibovitz, one of the most influential portrait photographers of our time. It showcases her iconic images and the stories behind them.

Fact: Leibovitz's work has graced the covers of Rolling Stone, Vanity Fair, and Vogue. The film was released in conjunction with her major retrospective at the National Portrait Gallery in London.

Description: This documentary tells the story of photographer E.O. Hoppé, his wife Marion, and her lover, exploring the complex dynamics of their relationship through Hoppé's photography. It's a fascinating look at personal life intersecting with art.

Fact: E.O. Hoppé was one of the most famous photographers of his time, but his personal life was largely unknown until this film.

Description: This documentary series profiles various photographers, showcasing their unique styles and the stories behind their work. It's an excellent introduction to the diversity of photographic art.

Fact: Each episode focuses on a different photographer, offering a broad spectrum of photographic techniques and subjects.

Description: This documentary explores the history and impact of The Photographer's Gallery in London, one of the world's leading centers for photography. It features interviews with artists and curators, providing insights into the world of photo exhibitions.

Fact: The gallery has been a hub for photography since 1971, showcasing works from both established and emerging photographers.