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DPC posted in the group Daily Photo Digest
Steve McCurry: Afghan Girl, 1984
Photo Credit: Sharbat Gula, “Afghan Girl,” cover page, National Geographic Magazine, June 1985This image, captured by Steve McCurry, is perhaps one of the most iconic portraits of our era. Known for his travel and documentary photography, McCurry has recently shifted his focus towards fine-art projects.
The visual power of “Afghan Girl” is anchored by Sharbat Gula’s piercing, haunting eyes that strike your heart. Her green eyes are complemented by the vivid, contrasting colours of her shawl, creating a sense of visual harmony. This effect is amplified by the rich, saturated colours of the Kodachrome film McCurry preferred. The shawl wraps around her face, serving as a natural frame that locks the viewer into her intense gaze. This portrait often elicits strong reactions due to its central leading eye—a technique frequently used by both McCurry and master painters—meaning she seems to stare back at you, no matter the angle from which you view the image.
Short Story
Sharbat Gula was a 12-year-old refugee living in Pakistan when the photo was taken. She became a symbol for the plight of Afghan refugees worldwide. Her full story wasn’t revealed until 2002, adding even more layers of complexity to this compelling image.To delve deeper into the Afghan Girl, look out for our next post and download the PDF titled “Haunting Yet Haunted: A Visual Analysis of the Afghan Girl.” For further insights into Steve McCurry’s work, visit his website: https://www.stevemccurry.com/
We’d love to hear your thoughts, so feel free to leave a comment below. Here are some questions to spark the conversation:
• What feelings does this portrait provoke in you?
• How does the composition and colour elevate its impact?
• Does this photo transcend its documentary purpose to fine art? Would you hang it on your wall?#PhotoDigest, #SteveMcCurry, #AfghanGirl, #NationalGeographic, #Kodachrome
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Her eyes mimicking the wall behind her and the spots of green in her clothes makes this compelling. The contrasting orange places all the focus on her eyes. Wild eyes, maybe scared. The viewer can’t look away and that makes it a masterpiece.