Inspirations of a Lifetime: Alfred Eisenstaedt

Inspirations of a Lifetime
Entrenched in my own Photography career for many years, I’ve never had a chance to express my gratitude and thanks to the artists who paved the way for many of inspirations.  I hope that writing about these amazing artists I will prompt others to seek them out and enjoy their incredible bodies of work.  I am pleased to share with you the first of the many artists who have motivated my journey in the brilliant medium of capturing images that last a lifetime.

Gay Head Bright Sun by Judy Reinford Photography

Alfred Eisenstaedt
Alfred Eisenstaedt was a German American photographer and renowned Photojournalist perhaps best known for the infamous V-J Day in Times Square photo taken in 1945. This photo represented the end of a brutal war and Alfred captured the emotion with one click of the shutter. The photo of the American sailor kissing a young nurse has been immortalized as one of the greatest photographs in history. 

A brief photo slideshow biography of this brilliant master of photography:

Over his extensive and long career, Eisenstaedt photographed some of the most famous events and people of the 20th century, including Albert Einstein, Marilyn Monroe and JFK. 

Gay Head Lighthouse by Judy Reinford Photography

Eisenstaedt vacationed, for over 50 years, on my favorite island, Martha’s Vineyard. There he spent his time experimenting with lenses, filters and working with natural light.  These techniques that were used to enhance film are still being replicated into the digital world of photography.
This Martha’s Vineyard connection was something I just recently stumbled upon. I’ve been a fan of his work for over 25 years and this was just an amazing connection that made me have to write about him. Eisenstaedt was very influential and active in the charitable events on Martha’s Vineyard to save and preserve the many lighthouses that are of magnificent beauty all over the island. One in particular is, Gay Head Lighthouse, where my husband (Stan) and I renewed our 20 year wedding vows. An unlikely but amazing connection. 
 

Stan and I at Gay Head Lighthouse, Martha's Vineyard celebrating 20 years of marriage.

Prior to his death in 1995 Eisenstaedt photographed the Clinton family at the Granary Gallery in West Tisbury on Martha’s Vineyard.  These photos can be seen in the 1993 edition of People magazine.

I share this artist with you so you may have an understanding of who I am as a photographer and artist. The inspiration I receive from Eisenstaedt has made me strive to be the best in my field, constantly learning and developing my own style while being absolutely in love with what I do every day.