© Steve McCurry
Perhaps not many people would know who Steve McCurry is. But if you are a reader of National Geographic magazine or are into photography, you probably would have seen this photo of the famous “Afghan Girl”.
It was taken by American photojournalist Steve McCurry in Pakistan (not Afghanistan) in 1984 which eventually made it to the June 1985 cover of National Geographic magazine. In 2002, McCurry and National Geographic magazine organized a journey to locate the girl in the picture and finally got to know her name. It’s Sharbat Gula.
In July this year, McCurry held a public exhibition in Singapore and I had the chance to see his signature shot of the “Afghan Girl” and also many other of his fine captures. Not surprising then that many would ask him how does one become a photographer. His reply, as shared on his blog is very simple, “If you want to be a photographer, first leave home” and added the words of a friend and a great writer, Paul Theroux, “Go as far as you can. Become a stranger in a strange land. Acquire humility”.
Leave. Go. Become a stranger. Acquire humility. That’s how you become a photographer.
Now that’s simple wisdom.
Tags: acquire humility, Afghan Girl, become a stranger, exhibition, go, leave home, National Geographic, Photography, Sharbat Gula, simple wisdom, Singapore, Steve McCurry, strange land
Singapore Time
As a wannabee, this is my experience too. Three years ago we moved from the Netherlands to Lao PDR. We were complete strangers in a strange but beautiful country.
The people, remote villages, buddhism and abundant nature. Laos will be in our hearts forever. A photoshoot during a three week jungle trekking for UN was an experience for life.
I have a great portfolio now and won some praises in Vientiane. Never would have accomplished this at home. Just before we left Laos my work was published in a 7-page article. Lot’s of positive feedback. Should I stay or should I go?
We went back home. Luckily we still have the photos…
Keep up the good work!
Cheers, Ed
http://www.yasunari.nl
http://www.blablablaos.com
Definitely one of the best photos ever.
And yes, definitely leave home. If you don’t leave home, you don’t understand what the world has to offer. I’m lucky to have moved several times and traveled a lot around the world, but there’s always more to experience.
What an interesting blog ! And great words of advice for anyone on behalf of Paul Theroux