Edward Weston

Date of Birth: March 24, 1886

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Date of Death: January 1, 1958

Biography

Edward Henry Weston was an influential American photographer and one of the most important figures in 20th-century photography. He was born in Highland Park, Illinois, and spent much of his career in California. Weston’s work spanned various genres, including landscapes, still lifes, nudes, portraits, genre scenes, and whimsical parodies. He started photography at the age of 16 when his father gave him his first camera. Weston is known for his sharply focused and highly detailed black-and-white photographs. His career took a significant turn when he moved to Mexico in the 1920s, where he became involved with the Mexican muralists and developed his modernist style. He later returned to California, where he continued to refine his technique and vision. Weston was one of the founding members of Group f/64, a collective of photographers that promoted “straight” photography as opposed to the pictorialist style that was popular at the time. His work has been exhibited and celebrated worldwide, and his legacy continues to influence photographers today.

5 Interesting Facts about Edward Weston

1. Edward Weston was the first photographer to receive a Guggenheim Fellowship, which allowed him to travel and photograph extensively in the United States.

2. Weston primarily used a large format 8×10 camera, which contributed to the exceptional detail and clarity of his prints.

3. He had a long-term relationship with fellow photographer Tina Modotti, who was also his muse and collaborator.

4. In 1937, Weston published “Seeing California with Edward Weston,” a book that showcased his exploration of the natural beauty of the state.

5. Weston was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in the late 1940s, which eventually ended his ability to photograph by 1948.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Edward Weston

1. “To see the world in a grain of sand and heaven in a wildflower, hold infinity in the palm of your hand and eternity in an hour.”

2. “I see no reason for recording the obvious.”

3. “The camera should be used for a recording of life, for rendering the very substance and quintessence of the thing itself, whether it be polished steel or palpitating flesh.”

4. “Photography suits the temper of this age—of active bodies and minds. It is a perfect medium for one whose mind is teeming with ideas, imagery, for a prolific worker who would be slowed down by painting or sculpture.”

5. “Anything more than 500 yards from the car just isn’t photogenic.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Edward Weston’s highest net worth is not well-documented, but his photographs have sold for hundreds of thousands of dollars at auction, making him one of the most highly valued photographers of his time.

Children

Edward Weston had four sons with his first wife, Flora Chandler Weston: 1. Edward Chandler Weston (1910–1993) – also known as Chandler, he became a successful photographer in his own right. 2. Theodore Brett Weston (1911–1993) – known as Brett, he followed in his father’s footsteps and became a renowned photographer. 3. Laurence Neil Weston (1916–1967) – known as Neil, he pursued a career outside of photography. 4. Cole Weston (1919–2003) – he also became a notable photographer and was responsible for printing many of his father’s works after Edward’s death.