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Jako Poolman posted in the group Daily Photo Digest
William C Beall. Faith and Confidence, Washington, DC, September 10, 1957
Photo Credit: Pulitzer.orgTry to define photography. Some photos are planned for. Some are staged, posed and structured. Then there are the photos that just happen, a fleeting moment that will forever be perfect. Just because it happened and because it is life, and someone happened to be there to freeze time.
The moment captured by William Beall shows a police officer bending down to talk to a young boy at his level. The innocence and confidence displayed by the young boy, combined with the implied line in the gaze between the two main characters, make for a captivating picture. Drawing the viewer into the moment that could have been missed or lost forever.
The three lines of people can quickly draw the viewer’s attention; however, with the subject front and centre, and the two not being part of any line, keeps the attention on the two. Line and repetition beautifully create a “frame” for the subjects, with the only other observer of the moment, the man on the right, with his arms crossed and an almost incredulous wry smile…maybe projecting his cynicism of the child’s innocence and faith.
Beall won the Pulitzer Prize in 1958 for his picture. He caught the moment during the Chinese Merchants Association parade in Washington, DC. Interestingly, it is said that because of this photo, the parade became more popular. He was a photographer for the Washington Daily News at the time.
In conclusion, Beall’s “Faith and Confidence” is an extraordinary illustration of the spontaneous, life-affirming moments that photography has the power to immortalise. This snapshot of a transient yet profound human connection not only won prestigious accolades but also resonated on a societal scale, prompting a surge in the popularity of the event it captured. It stands as a testament to the impact and allure of candid photography, reminding us of the magic woven into the fabric of everyday life, waiting to be framed and celebrated.#photodigest #WilliamBeall #Pulitzer #historicalphotography #photojournalism #visualstorytelling
https://www.lib.ncsu.edu/archivedexhibits/pulitzer/h1958.html
https://www.pulitzer.org/winners/william-c-beall![]()
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Jako Poolman
Vice-Principal - BMT College
I am an amateur/enthusiast/hobbyist photographer looking to improve my technique and find my style. Right now, I enjoy all types of photography. I lean more towards the challenge of street photography and enjoy the mix of technicality, composition, and creativity of studio work.
As an educator and Vice-Principal of BMT College, I get to do what I love, by creating opportunities for people to learn and improve their worlds.
I absolutely believe that every one of us has infinite potential, but that our purpose for existence is only a fraction for ourselves and mostly for other people.
Focus on and enjoy the process, the work, the grind. Have fun. The rest will follow.
First time I’ve seen this eye-catching photo and it immediately struck a chord! The scene seems almost staged and has a cinematic quality, appearing as though it could be part of a movie. I love how the main subjects – the boy and the policeman – are isolated against the “extras”, apart from the man on the right glancing down and smiling at them. The boy’s confidence – as you said, is visible, and the policeman bending down to his level is gracious and friendly. Thanks for sharing this wonderful picture, Jako!
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#VisualStorytelling