William Albert Allard

Date of Birth: 1937

Zodiac Sign: Unknown

Biography

William Albert Allard is a distinguished American photographer renowned for his evocative and intimate portraiture and documentary photography. Born in 1937 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Allard is celebrated for his long-standing association with National Geographic, where his work has significantly contributed to the magazine’s visual storytelling tradition. Over his career, Allard has explored diverse cultures and communities, capturing the essence of human life with a keen eye for detail and a deep sense of empathy. Allard’s journey in photography began when he attended the Minneapolis School of Fine Arts and later the University of Minnesota. His professional breakthrough came in the early 1960s when he joined National Geographic as an intern. His early work on the Amish community in Pennsylvania garnered critical acclaim and established his reputation as a photographer capable of creating powerful visual narratives. Throughout his career, Allard has published several books, including “The Photographic Essay,” “Vanishing Breed,” and “Portraits of America,” which showcase his unique ability to blend journalism with fine art. His work has been exhibited in galleries and museums worldwide, earning him numerous awards and honors.

5 Interesting Facts about William Albert Allard

1. William Albert Allard’s book “Vanishing Breed” is considered a classic in the genre of Western Americana photography.

2. He has worked with National Geographic for over 50 years, contributing to more than 40 articles.

3. Allard was awarded the Photographer of the Year Award by the Missouri School of Journalism’s Pictures of the Year International competition.

4. In addition to his photography, Allard is also an accomplished writer and has penned several essays and articles.

5. He is known for his color photography at a time when many photojournalists were still working primarily in black and white.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from William Albert Allard

1. “You’ve got to be looking for signs of life. You’ve got to be looking for the story.”

2. “I think the best pictures aren’t necessarily the sharpest ones, or the ones most perfectly composed. The best pictures are the ones that evoke feelings.”

3. “Photography is more than a medium for factual communication of ideas. It is a creative art.”

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

5. “To me, photography is an art of observation. It’s about finding something interesting in an ordinary place.”