An exhibition in Milan peels back the layers of Daniele Tamagni‘s incredible photography. The Italian photographer, who died in 2017 at age 42 after battling a long illness, is heralded for his work celebrating street style across Africa. His work combines street photography, photojournalism, and fashion photography in a way that is uniquely his.

Ninety of his images are now on show at Milan’s Palazzo Morando until April 1. Daniel Tamagni Style is Life is the first retrospective dedicated to the award-winning photographer’s work. The show encompasses seven years of his photography and brings us on a journey across the globe. From action-packed images of Bolivia’s “flying cholitas” to incredible portraits of the Sapeurs of Congo, who use dapper fashion as a form of social resistance, Tamagni’s ability to infiltrate global subcultures is astonishing.

“In choosing countries and cities far outside the usual context of fashion, I not only wanted to offer an overview of the phenomenon of globalized style, but also record the resistance to and preservation of traditions,” Tamagni once shared.

“Daniele undertook a mission to show that Africa is diverse, housing many untold stories,” says co-curator Aïda Muluneh. “In my perspective, art revolves around conveying our personal truths. He deliberately focused on individuals at society’s edges, those challenging norms, prioritizing self-affirmation over societal endorsement—trailblazers of their unique journeys.”

The exhibition and accompanying photobook are a wonderful way to honor Tamagni’s legacy and bring his photography to a wider audience. As we travel with him to heavy metal festivals in Botswana or learn about the female fashion designers in Dakar who are elevating Senegalese fashion, we also understand a bit more about his passion for life and his unending quest to discover more about the diverse people who make our planet unique.

A retrospective exhibition in Milan celebrates the work of photographer Daniele Tamagni.

Portrait of a Sapeur wearing hot pink sunglasses and matching tie, holding a pipe in his mouth. Brazzaville, Congo (2008)

Dixy in London, from Gentlemen of Bacongo, 2009.

Tembisa Revolution #2, from Joburg Style Battles, 2014.

Tamagni traveled the world to photograph subcultures, with particular attention to street style.

The Playboys of Bacongo, from Gentlemen of Bacongo, 2008.

Carmen Rosa flying, from The Flying Cholitas, 2010.

Dignified Queen and Katy, from Afrometals, 2012.

Untitled, from Afrometals, 2012.

Though Tamagni passed away in 2017, the influence of his work can still be felt.

Model at Dakar Fashion Week, 2011.

Portrait of a member of the Piccadilly Group wearing a bowtie and an eye patch. Brazzaville, Congo (2008)

Izis Boys, from Joburg Style Battles, 2014.

Daniele Tamagni Style is Life is on view at Palazzo Morando in Milan until April 1, 2024.

Smarteez #2, from Joburg Style Battles, 2014.

Boy with kite, Cuba, 2005.

Daniele Tamagni Foundation: Website | Instagram | Facebook

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by the Daniele Tamagni Foundation.

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Photographer Bruce Mathews of Oak Bluffs views his latest subject, flowers, in a very different way than that of most other artists. While shooting various species in a dedicated studio space in his Oak Bluffs apartment, he discovers life and vibrancy in the blooms he collects at local florists.

These qualities truly shine in Mathews’ exhibit of 28 images, currently hanging at the Martha’s Vineyard Playhouse art space. Set against stark black or white backgrounds, his botanical subjects display their beauty and individuality in a surprisingly intimate and almost animated way.

“At first I thought of an imaginary land where flowers have this kind of life to them,” says Mathews, describing what inspired him to focus on his most recent subject. “They live their lives in privacy, and no one sees them.”

Hence the title of the exhibit, “Flowers When No One’s Looking.” Fortunately for viewers, Mathews has managed to reveal this secret life in an astonishingly compelling way, focusing not just on color, but on form and detail.

The sight of gardens overflowing with various flowers proved irresistible to Mathews’ sense of design. He admits to having plundered a few (only if there were plenty to spare), drawn by something that attracted his artist’s eye. As much as the colors, Mathews found himself struck by the beauty of his botanical captives, once he had separated them from the pack.

“I was struck as much by the colors as by the intricacy and patterning that can be found by looking closely at blooms and foliage,” he says. “I’m very keen on elements of design — on composition and light and shadow.”

Light and shadow, along with the “still life” quality of the studio-based arrangements, impart the look and feel of an old master painting to some of his photos. Although he never heightens the natural colors of his subjects, he sometimes plays with deepening shadows somewhat to bring the images to three-dimensional life.

Mathews has found that flowers, once plucked, are not the easiest subjects to work with. “I’m working against time,” he says. “They don’t sit there looking pretty. They droop and fade. I work on these things for hours. and in that time it’s right on the cusp of losing their freshness.”

Although Mathews is reluctant to reveal his trade secrets for the black background images, he does offer some insight on his webpage on how he creates the images set against a white background. An art critic for the Record recounts the details shared by Mathews in an interview: “He finds ingenious ways of manipulating flowers — suspending them in water, freezing them, tugging apart their blossoms or seed pods — even flattening them on a car windshield and shooting [from inside the car] against a luminous sky.”

For the white-background series, Mathews often deconstructs the flowers, and arranges them in artistic “poses” that in some cases mimic the fluid movements of dancers and other people in motion.

In some of the black background photos, the careful positioning of the blooms and/or torn pieces of petals suggest other forms — a bird of paradise flower appears to have taken off in flight; a deconstructed white lily could easily represent a flock of snow geese, the colorful stamens hinting at bright orange feet.

The artist himself sees human forms in his series of monochromatic milkweed pod images. He mentions tableaux that he imagines rising from the combination of filaments and seed casings — a clutch of people waiting at a bus stop, a gathering of demonstrators.

Before retiring to the Island, Mathews enjoyed a successful career as a New York City–based commercial photographer. After 25 years in the city, he moved to the Vineyard and started focusing on producing fine art images, clearly influenced by his love of design and composition.

The critic who wrote about Mathews’ flower images concludes his review with the following: “In a digital age, Mathews is a purist: What you see is what he saw in his viewfinder: an alternate botanical universe that was always there, waiting to be discovered.”

“Flowers When No One’s Looking,” a solo show of photographs by Bruce Mathews, will hang at the Martha’s Vineyard Playhouse lobby art space through April 19. 

The late American fashion photographer David Seidner (1957-1999) was influential in his life, but his work has, sadly, gone underappreciated in the decades since his passing. The International Center of Photography (ICP) in New York City aims to change that through an ongoing exhibition of Seidner’s work called “Fragments.”

David Seidner Was a Groundbreaking Photographer Unbound By Rigid Genres

“Fragments” showcases a survey of Seidner’s fine art photography and portraiture from 1977 until 1999, the year he died due to an AIDS-related illness at only 42 years old. Throughout his career, Seidner routinely pushed artistic boundaries and defied easy categorization. Yes, he shot portraits and created fashion images, but his techniques and creative approach were far outside the norm.

The exhibit’s name comes from one of Seidner’s photographic techniques, fragmentation, where he split a subject across multiple parts of the frame through double exposures and reflections. This was quite the technical tour de force to pull off in the analog era. Although, it is not straightforward to do effectively in the digital age, either.

His subjects ranged from groundbreaking dancers to well-known artists, and his final project was an abstract series of still-life photography focused on orchids.

Beyond his personal work, he was also a prolific editorial photographer for world-famous publications like Harper’s Bazaar, Harper’s & Queen, The New York Times Magazine, Vanity Fair, and international editions of Vogue. The photographer even earned exclusive photography contracts with designers, including Yves Saint Laurent.

“Even though he photographed with and for the leading fashion designers of his time, Seidner was an artist who made work no matter where it appeared or how it circulated,” says Elisabeth Sherman, ICP’s Senior Curator and Director of Exhibitions and Collections.

“This quality of Seidner’s work — being at once timeless while expressing the particularity of his own voice — is exactly what drew me to him initially,” Sherman tells PetaPixel over email. “I also think the way in which he made his career, working between fashion, editorial, advertising, and contemporary art is truthful to how many photographers live and work but, not until recently, have they been able to acknowledge and celebrate these various facets of their careers and how they relate to one another. He was very prescient in that way.”

David Seidner was a pioneer, and it is long past due that his work receives the attention it deserves.

The ICP has been the repository for Seidner’s archive since 2001 when it was gifted to the organization. Sherman believes that today, with sufficient historical distance, people will have a better understanding of how innovative the photographer was throughout his career.

So far, visitors have proven her right.

“I think the most consistent takeaway is surprise and amazement at the strength and range of the work and the poignancy of seeing the whole of his career together for the first time,” Sherman explains.

As for her personal opinions of Seidner’s body of work, Sherman loves the “disinterest” he had concerning the boundaries between different photographic genres.

“The blending of his passions across artistic disciplines is what makes him such a singular and enduring photographer.”

David Seidner’s Work Is on Exhibit Until May

“David Seidner: Fragments, 1977-99” is on exhibit at ICP in New York City as part of its 50th anniversary celebration until May 6, 2024. To learn more and get tickets to see the show, visit the ICP’s website.

Image credits: Photographs by David Seidner and provided by the International Center of Photography

The Women’s Literary Club had the pleasure of hosting a special program on nature photography, presented by Rocky Holland, a distinguished U.S. Army veteran and celebrated nature photographer, at Hill Memorial Church. Holland, with a passion kindled during his service in Alaska amid the Vietnam War, shared his lifelong journey through the lens, capturing the essence of the wild.

From Alaska to the Pacific: A Journey Through the Lens

Holland’s presentation transported club members across various terrains, from the rugged Alaskan wilderness to the serene Pacific coast, through a collection of breathtaking wildlife photographs. Over 56 years, Holland has honed his craft, amassing thousands of images that celebrate nature’s raw beauty. His portfolio, showcased at local galleries such as the Westline Inn and his own Eagle-Eye Photography in Kane, spans a wide array of subjects including majestic birds, elusive bobcats, and dramatic landscapes.

A Showcased Legacy at Art in the Wilds

Holland’s annual participation in the Art in the Wilds show in Kane stands as a testament to his renowned status in the photography community. Here, he exhibits a selection of his work, drawing admirers from near and far. His dedication to capturing the fleeting moments of nature’s wonders has not only contributed to his personal gallery but has also inspired a broad audience through exhibitions and presentations such as the one held at the Women’s Literary Club.

Engaging the Community and Fostering Appreciation

Following the captivating presentation, Club President Mary Lou Detweiler took the opportunity to thank Holland for his enriching contribution and to remind members of upcoming events, including a card day at the Bradford Library and the next program at Togi’s. Holland’s visit not only highlighted the club’s commitment to diverse and engaging programming but also underscored the importance of nature conservation and appreciation through the art of photography.

As Rocky Holland continues to explore and capture the marvels of the natural world, his work serves as a bridge between the wild and those confined to the urban sprawl. His presentations not only showcase the beauty and diversity of wildlife but also remind us of the importance of preserving these natural wonders for future generations to cherish.

Vanguard recently introduced the Alta Pro 3VRL tripod series, a groundbreaking innovation designed to enhance the photography experience. Available in both aluminum and carbon fiber, these tripods offer a unique leveling system and a quick-release platform, setting a new standard in the market. Aimed at professional photographers and videographers, the Alta Pro 3VRL series promises unparalleled stability and flexibility for various camera setups.

Innovative Design and Functionality

The Alta Pro 3VRL series distinguishes itself with the Alta Pro 3VRL LVL leveling system. This feature incorporates a handle allowing users to swiftly unlock, reposition, and lock the base, ensuring the camera is perfectly leveled on any terrain within seconds. Moreover, the series introduces the Alta Pro 3VRL Platform 30, facilitating rapid changes between different tripod setups without the hassle of removing and reattaching heads. This versatility is further enhanced by the option to purchase additional levels and platforms, catering to the diverse needs of photographers and videographers.

Unmatched Stability and Load Capacity

Designed with the user’s convenience in mind, the Alta Pro 3VRL tripods boast three-section 30mm legs that are easily adjustable through simple-to-clean leg locks. These locks can be set to angles of 23°, 50°, and 80°, providing stability on various terrains and supporting loads of up to 25kg. Despite its robust design, the carbon fiber variant of the tripod remains lightweight at just 2085g, making it an ideal companion for on-the-go photography sessions. Vanguard’s commitment to enhancing the photographer’s toolkit is evident in the planned addition of an extending central column, addressing the needs of those requiring greater height from their equipment.

Market Availability and Pricing

The Vanguard Alta Pro 3VRL series now retails starting from £300/$460, depending on the chosen configuration. This pricing strategy positions the Alta Pro 3VRL series as a competitive option for both amateur and professional photographers seeking high-quality, versatile tripod systems. The series’ debut at The Photography & Video Show has garnered attention, promising to set new benchmarks in photography equipment.

As the photography landscape continues to evolve, Vanguard’s Alta Pro 3VRL series stands out as a testament to the brand’s innovation and commitment to quality. This new range of tripods not only addresses common challenges faced by photographers but also opens up new possibilities for creative expression. With its unique leveling system, quick-release platform, and lightweight yet stable design, the Alta Pro 3VRL series is poised to become a favored tool for photographers and videographers worldwide.

This week on The PetaPixel Podcast, Chris and Jordan share their favorite movies from the last year that they think will have a positive impact on your photography and filmmaking.

Today’s podcast is brought to you by OM SYSTEM and their award-winning TOUGH TG-7—a camera built to withstand the most extreme conditions. The TOUGH TG-7 is built like a tank. It’s waterproof, shockproof, freezeproof, and crushproof. Whether you’re hiking in the mountains, exploring underwater wonders, or simply documenting everyday moments, this camera rises to the occasion.

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The duo rarely agree when it comes to movies, but they do have some common ground when discussing best film and best cinematography. If you find inspiration in how other people see the world and tell stories, you’re going to want to hear why Chris and Jordan recommend these films.

We use Riverside to record The PetaPixel Podcast in our online recording studio.

We hope you enjoy the podcast and we look forward to hearing what you think. If you like what you hear, please support us by subscribing, liking, commenting, and reviewing! Every week, the trio go over comments on YouTube and here on PetaPixel, but if you’d like to send a message for them to hear, you can do so through SpeakPipe.

In This Episode

• 00:00 -Intro: What is your favorite snack at movie theaters?
• 09:25 – Stop being so elitist about your sensor size
• 15:00 – Sigma’s 500mm f/5.6 is super popular
• 17:14 – Canon: no camera is high res enough to make content for Vision Pro
• 23:06 – Pentax’s film camera will launch this summer
• 27:05 – The Year’s Best Movies to Inspire Your Photography
• 30:51 – Jordan’s #5: BlackBerry
• 32:56 – Chris’s #5: Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves
• 35:09 – Jordan’s #4: Killers of the Flower Moon
• 37:27 – Chris’s #4: Oppenheimer
• 39:28 – Jordan’s #3: Poor Things
• 40:44 – Chris’s #3: The Holdovers
• 43:11 – Jordan’s #2: Maestro
• 45:53 – Chris’s #2: Anatomy of a Fall
• 48:40 – Jordan’s #1: Past Lives
• 52:14 – Chris’s #1: Poor Things
• 54:50 – The movies with the best cinematography (lightning round)
• 1:03:45 – About watching movies on planes…
• 1:05:04 – Jaron’s picks for television entertainment
• 1:09:29 – Tech support
• 1:23:31 – Chris with his version of a segue
• 1:24:04 – Never read the comments

THESE photos, all shortlisted for the Sony World Photography Awards 2024, strike at the heart of human vulnerability and the fragility of nature.

Eddo Hartmann is a finalist in the Landscape category for his series The Sacrifice Zone, referring to a remote part of Kazakhstan that was the major testing ground for the Soviet Union’s nuclear experiments from 1949 to 1989.

The image above shows a dosimetrist measuring radiation levels at Kazakhstan’s Lake Shagan. This area remains highly contaminated from the 450 or so nuclear tests carried out there. The main picture (top) shows what remains of an observation tower at Opytnoe Pole in Russia, another area used for Soviet nuclear tests.

Hartmann used infrared to capture these landscapes, with the red hues evoking radiation contamination, which can’t be seen by the naked eye. “Local scientists utilise infrared technology to monitor the current conditions of contaminated sites,” he says. “The chlorophyll present in green vegetation reflects a substantial amount of infrared light. The various shades of reflection provide valuable insights into the overall health of the environment in the specified area.”

Elsewhere, a girl climbs onto an old oil tank in the Albanian village of Zharrëz (pictured above). This image, taken by Jonas Kakó, is shortlisted in the Environment category. Pictured below, Wildlife & Nature finalist Jasper Doest captured elephants charging through Livingstone, Zambia.

The winner of the competition will be revealed on 18 April, before an exhibition at Somerset House, London, from 19 April to 6 May.

ROCKINGHAM — The Richmond County Photography Group will host an open house on Sunday, March 10 displaying various pieces of their photography at Arts Richmond.

The event will be open for the public to enjoy from 3-5 p.m., and refreshments will be available to all who attend. There will also be photos available for purchase.

Jimmy McDonald started the group around 12 years ago to share his love and knowledge of photography and to encourage others along.

McDonald stepped down last year but requested the group to continue. The group’s members are excited to display their work, as this will be the first exhibit in several years. The community is encouraged to drop by and meet some of the local photographers while enjoying the exhibit.

Alongside the photography exhibit will be numerous quilts on display, some dating back almost 100 years.

While quilts may be family heirlooms, they can also carry special messages within their patterns.

Years ago, quilting names such as crossroads, log cabin, bow ties, north star, tumbling blocks, and many more all represented a code message within the quilt. This secret message was used to guide and protect people in the Underground Railroad.

There will be handouts available with more information during the exhibit.

Arts Richmond invites the community to drop by and support the local arts.

For more information visit Arts Richmond Facebook page and Richmond County Photography Group Facebook page.

Every other year, the journalism program at the University of Montana produces Byline Magazine, a project written, edited and photographed entirely by students. One of those students is Ava Rosvold, a 21-year-old graduate of Wenatchee High School. Her photographs illustrate three articles in the most recent Byline.

NCWLIFE spoke with Ava about this year’s magazine, which focuses on the mental health challenges facing the people of Montana. She says she’s always loved photography, but moved toward photojournalism once she began her college career. She’s been published in the Bozeman Daily Chronicle and other outlets. You can find Ava’s online portfolio at her website or on Instagram.