Alfred Eisenstaedt

Date of Birth: December 6, 1898

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Date of Death: August 23, 1995

Biography

Alfred Eisenstaedt was a renowned German-born American photographer and photojournalist, most famous for his candid, intimate, and often iconic images taken during his long career. Born on December 6, 1898, in Dirschau, West Prussia, Germany (now Tczew, Poland), Eisenstaedt moved to Berlin in 1906. His passion for photography began in his teenage years, particularly after receiving a camera as a gift. Eisenstaedt’s career took off in the 1920s when he began working for Pacific and Atlantic Photos, which was later acquired by the Associated Press. His work gained widespread recognition, and he became one of the first four photographers hired by LIFE magazine in 1936. He is best known for his photograph “V-J Day in Times Square,” which captures a sailor kissing a nurse in New York City on Victory over Japan Day. This image has become one of the most iconic photographs of the 20th century. Throughout his career, Eisenstaedt covered a wide range of subjects, from world leaders and celebrities to everyday people. He had a unique ability to capture the essence of his subjects, often revealing their humanity and emotions. Eisenstaedt continued to work well into his later years, contributing to LIFE magazine until it ceased weekly publication in 1972 and even after that. Alfred Eisenstaedt passed away on August 23, 1995, in Oak Bluffs, Massachusetts, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most influential photojournalists of his time.

5 Interesting Facts about Alfred Eisenstaedt

1. Alfred Eisenstaedt was one of the first four photographers hired by LIFE magazine in 1936.

2. He took the iconic photograph “V-J Day in Times Square,” which captures a sailor kissing a nurse, symbolizing the end of World War II.

3. Eisenstaedt was known for his ability to capture candid moments, often using small 35mm Leica cameras to remain unobtrusive.

4. He photographed many notable figures, including Marilyn Monroe, Ernest Hemingway, and Albert Einstein.

5. Eisenstaedt published numerous books of his photography, including “Witness to Our Time” and “Eisenstaedt on Eisenstaedt: A Self-Portrait.”

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Alfred Eisenstaedt

1. “It is more important to click with people than to click the shutter.”

2. “When I have a camera in my hand, I know no fear.”

3. “The important thing is not the camera but the eye.”

4. “I have to be as much diplomat as a photographer.”

5. “Photographers are like wine; they get better with age.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

While exact figures are hard to determine, Alfred Eisenstaedt was estimated to have a net worth of around $1 million at the peak of his career, considering his extensive work with LIFE magazine and his published books.