Photography is an art form that transcends mere technical skill; it is about connection, emotion, and storytelling. The famous quote by Robert Capa,

“If your pictures aren't good enough, you aren't close enough”

encapsulates this idea beautifully. It challenges photographers to think about their relationship with their subjects and the intimacy required to capture genuine moments. This article explores the origins of this quote, its implications, and how another photographer incorporates closeness into his work.

Robert Capa's war photography: the origin of the quote

*The Falling Soldier, Robert Capa, 1936*

Robert Capa, a Hungarian-American war photographer and photojournalist, is best known for his gripping images taken during the Spanish Civil War and World War 2. His work is characterised by its raw emotion and the visceral reality of conflict. Capa believed that to truly capture the essence of a moment, a photographer must be physically close to their subject. This philosophy is evident in his iconic images, where the viewer can almost feel the tension and chaos of the battlefield. His most famous photograph, "The Falling Soldier," is a haunting depiction of a soldier caught in the moment of death, encapsulating the brutality of war in a single frame. This image, along with many others, has become emblematic of Capa's ability to convey the immediacy and horror of conflict through his lens.

The quote itself serves as a mantra for many photographers, urging them to engage more deeply with their subjects. Capa's belief was that the closer one gets, the more authentic the image becomes. This idea is not just about physical proximity but also about emotional closeness. It encourages photographers to immerse themselves in their surroundings and connect with the people they are photographing. Capa's approach often led him into the heart of danger, where he faced the same risks as the soldiers he documented. His willingness to put himself in perilous situations not only elevated his work but also highlighted the ethical responsibility that comes with capturing the human experience in times of strife.

What does it mean?

At its core, Capa's quote emphasises the importance of engagement. It suggests that great photography is not merely about technical prowess or the perfect lighting; it is about the photographer's ability to connect with their subject on a deeper level. When a photographer is close—both physically and emotionally—they can capture moments that resonate with viewers. These images tell stories that go beyond the surface, evoking feelings and provoking thought. Capa's work often transcended mere documentation; it became a powerful commentary on the human condition, illustrating the fragility of life and the impact of war on individuals and communities alike.

In practical terms, this can mean getting up close and personal with the subject, whether it’s a soldier in the midst of battle or a child playing in the streets. It’s about being present in the moment, allowing the photographer to witness and document the raw emotions and interactions that unfold. This level of engagement often results in photographs that are not only visually striking but also rich in narrative. The intimacy of Capa's images invites viewers to step into the shoes of those depicted, fostering empathy and understanding. His ability to portray vulnerability amidst chaos serves as a reminder of the shared humanity that exists even in the darkest of times.

Why I think this is a trap

While Capa's quote is inspiring, it can also be misleading. The notion that one must always be physically close to achieve great photography can create a trap for many. It risks reducing the art form to a formulaic approach, where proximity is seen as the only path to capturing compelling images. This perspective can overshadow the importance of context, composition, and the broader narrative. In the world of photography, there is a delicate balance between intimacy and distance, and understanding when to employ each can be crucial in telling a story effectively.

Moreover, there are countless examples of powerful photographs taken from a distance. Consider the work of photojournalists who document large-scale events or natural disasters. Sometimes, stepping back allows for a more comprehensive understanding of a situation. In these cases, the emotional weight of the image may come from the context rather than the closeness of the photographer to the subject. A wide shot of a devastated landscape can evoke a sense of loss and despair that a close-up might not convey. This broader perspective can highlight the scale of human suffering or resilience, reminding us that every story has multiple layers that deserve to be explored. By recognising the value of distance, photographers can enrich their storytelling and create a more nuanced visual narrative that resonates with viewers on various levels.

Alex Webb: complex layered photographs full of soul

“I’ve always chosen to interpret Capa’s saying expansively, to mean not necessarily getting physically close but getting emotionally, spiritually, or psychologically close. In this more expansive sense, it seems like good advice.”

*Mexicans arrested while trying to cross the border to the United States, San Ysidro, California, Alex Webb, 1979*

Alex Webb is a master of colour and composition, known for his complex, layered photographs that often tell intricate stories. His work defies the simplicity of Capa's quote by illustrating that emotional closeness can be achieved without physical proximity (although he does employ physical closeness in many of his photos). Webb’s photographs are filled with rich detail and vibrant colours, capturing the essence of a moment while inviting viewers to explore the layers within each frame.

Webb often shoots in crowded environments, where the interplay of light, shadow, and human interaction creates a tapestry of life. His ability to convey emotion and narrative through composition is a testament to the idea that closeness can be multifaceted. It’s not just about getting close to the subject; it’s about understanding the environment and the relationships that exist within it. Each photograph serves as a portal, drawing the viewer into a world brimming with stories waiting to be uncovered. The bustling streets of Havana or the vibrant markets of Istanbul become not just backdrops but characters in their own right, contributing to the narrative Webb weaves through his lens.

Why Alex Webb is the epitome of emotional closeness

What sets Alex Webb apart is his profound understanding of the human experience. He captures moments that resonate on an emotional level, often without the need for physical closeness. His photographs invite viewers to step into a scene, to feel the energy and emotion of the moment, regardless of the distance from the subject. The subtle nuances of human expression, the fleeting glances exchanged between strangers, and the vibrant chaos of life are all encapsulated in his work, allowing for a rich tapestry of human connection that transcends mere proximity.

Webb’s work exemplifies that emotional closeness can be achieved through thoughtful composition and an acute awareness of the surroundings. He often waits for the right moment, allowing the scene to unfold naturally. This patience and observation lead to photographs that are rich in narrative, offering a glimpse into the lives of others while maintaining a respectful distance. His keen eye for detail is complemented by a deep respect for the cultures he documents, ensuring that each image is not just a snapshot but a respectful homage to the lives and stories of the people within it.

Why I think this is more important than physical proximity

In the realm of photography, emotional connection often outweighs physical closeness. The ability to convey a story or evoke a feeling through an image is a skill that transcends the mere act of getting close. Photographers like Webb demonstrate that understanding context, emotion, and the interplay of elements within a frame can lead to powerful imagery. His work challenges the viewer to engage with the photograph on a deeper level, to consider the unseen narratives and the emotions that lie just beneath the surface.

The depth of emotional connection in photography often transcends mere physical proximity. When we truly understand and empathize with our subjects, we create images that resonate with authenticity and meaning. This emotional investment allows photographers to capture moments that tell profound stories, revealing the deeper truths of human experience. Webb's masterful approach demonstrates how emotional attunement creates a rich dialogue between the image and viewer, inviting contemplation of the intricate web of human connections. His layered compositions remind us that every photograph carries multiple narratives, each enriched by the photographer's emotional investment in the scene before them.

What closeness means to me

For many photographers, closeness is a deeply personal concept that goes beyond the technicalities of the craft. It encompasses an emotional investment in the subject matter and a genuine interest in the stories being told. Closeness can manifest in various ways—through the relationships built with subjects, the understanding of cultural contexts, or the passion for a particular theme or issue.

Emotional investment is crucial in photography. When a photographer cares about their subject, it shows in the images. This connection can lead to more authentic and compelling photographs, as the photographer is not merely capturing a moment but is engaged in a dialogue with their subject. This dialogue can create a sense of trust, allowing for more intimate and revealing images.

Ultimately, closeness in photography is about the stories that unfold through the lens. It’s about capturing the essence of humanity in all its complexity, whether through a close-up portrait or a wide-angle shot of a bustling street. The beauty of photography lies in its ability to convey emotion and narrative, inviting viewers to connect with the images on a deeper level.

In conclusion, while Robert Capa’s quote serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of engagement in photography, it is essential to recognise that closeness can take many forms. Photographers like Alex Webb illustrate that emotional connection and understanding can be just as impactful as physical proximity. Ultimately, the most compelling images are those that resonate with the viewer, regardless of how close the photographer was to the subject. Closeness, in all its dimensions, remains a vital component of the art of photography.

If your pictures aren’t good enough, you aren’t close enough