Bill Brandt

Date of Birth: May 3, 1904

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: December 20, 1983

Biography

Bill Brandt, born Hermann Wilhelm Brandt, was a pivotal figure in 20th-century photography known for his distinctive black-and-white images. Brandt was born on May 3, 1904, in Hamburg, Germany. He moved to England in 1933, where he began his career as a photographer. His work is often characterized by its moody, atmospheric qualities, and he is especially renowned for his contributions to various genres, including portraiture, landscapes, and social documentation. Brandt’s early career was influenced by his time in Paris, where he studied under Man Ray. His photographs from this period reflect the surrealist movement’s impact on his style. In the 1930s and 1940s, Brandt produced some of his most famous work, documenting the stark contrasts of British society. His books “The English at Home” (1936) and “A Night in London” (1938) are considered landmarks in photographic literature. Brandt’s later work ventured more into abstract and experimental photography, using techniques such as high-contrast printing and unusual perspectives. His nudes and landscapes from this period are considered masterpieces of modern photography. He passed away on December 20, 1983, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire photographers worldwide.

5 Interesting Facts about Bill Brandt

1. Bill Brandt was originally named Hermann Wilhelm Brandt.

2. He studied under the famous surrealist photographer Man Ray in Paris.

3. Brandt’s book “The English at Home” is a seminal work documenting the British class system.

4. His later work is known for its abstract qualities, often using high-contrast and unusual perspectives.

5. Brandt’s photograph “East End Girl Dancing the Lambeth Walk” is one of his most iconic images.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Bill Brandt

1. “Photography is still a very new medium and everything must be tried and dare.”

2. “It is part of the photographer’s job to see more intensely than most people do.”

3. “The photographer must have and keep in him something of the receptiveness of the child who looks at the world for the first time.”

4. “I am not interested in rules and conventions, photography is not a sport.”

5. “I am not an expert on technique, but I am an expert on how my own photographs should look.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Bill Brandt’s highest net worth is not well-documented, but his photographs have been sold at auction for significant sums, often reaching tens of thousands of dollars per print.