Chris Killip's Large Format Camera Yielded Intimate 1970s-80s British Portraits
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Chris Killip's Large Format Camera Yielded Intimate 1970s-80s British Portraits

SUMMARY

Photographer Chris Killip's book 'North' showcases intimate images of deindustrialized communities in North-East England and Ireland from 1975-1986. Despite using a large-format field camera, a setup usually too slow for candid photography, Killip achieved unguarded moments by living within the communities for extended periods. This approach built trust, allowing the deliberate camera process to become a natural part of his subjects' lives. The large-format negatives also provided exceptional detail and tonal range, crucial for the clarity and impact of his documentary work.

TAKEAWAYS

Chris Killip used a large-format camera for intimate documentary photography in 1970s-80s Britain.

He spent months living in communities to build trust before photographing.

The slow, deliberate process became accepted as part of daily life.

Large-format negatives offered superior detail and tonal range for his prints.

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