Meet The Photographer :: Don Hudson
Meet The Photographer :: Don Hudson. The MF Gallery Director, Meredith Fleischer and Don Hudson Q&A session, exploring Hudson’s creative inspiration and unique photographic style including his methodical approach to photography that begins with a deep respect for the way the camera is able to describe the reflected light of a piece of reality. “It's the flux and flow of life in public that fascinates me.”
Self-portrait, Somewhere on the road, Western USA, 1973 © Don Hudson
DON HUDSON INTERVIEW
MF : How is your personality reflected in your work?
DH : I am a classic introvert. Although I am attracted to the energy of the human social landscape. That social energy I put myself in front of is also personally draining for me. And that is actually why I love photography. The energy that transpires in the act of photography is balanced with the retreat to the darkroom or computer when reviewing and contemplating the images made. It becomes a kind of restorative process for the energy drained in making the photos. I love both aspects of the photographic relationship.
MF : Is there any message that you want to convey through your photographs?
DH : Well, the only real message that I hope comes through is that we have a limited time on the big ball so let's have some fun and be curious about our world.
MF : What are you looking for in a great picture?
DH : I would say that the ultimate great picture for me is the one exhibiting the tension between form, the way an image looks, and content, what it is allegedly about. The best pictures have both and that is what I strive to achieve.
MF : Who are the top 3 bands/artists currently on your music playlist?
DH : The Third Mind and The Third Mind/2,by The Third Mind. Ali by Vieux Farka Toure and Khrangbin. Sanctuary, by Charlie Musselwhite.
MF : Name 3 of your favorite books on photography.
DH : Factory Valleys, by Lee Friedlander. American Prospects, by Joel Sternfeld., Winogrand 1964, by Garry Winogrand
MF : What is your favorite picture from The MF Gallery collection and why? (yours or other photographers)
DH : Of my own I would have to say my all time favorite is Somewhere On the Road, Michigan, 1975 of the couple by the car outside the cafe. I like the picture in a picture framing and the scale differences, from the partial place setting bottom center to the car and couple on to the distant horizon. The questions arising about the couple's conversation and predicament carry subjective heft for me. I think it embodies that tension between form and content I mentioned before.
Somewhere On the Road, Michigan, 1975 © Don Hudson
MF : What draws you specifically to street photography compared to other genres?
DH : I actually like the more static and contemplative type of cultural landscape photography also. But what draws me to street in particular is the chance to frame the mostly illusive energy of people in the social landscape, and do it in a way that honors the camera's ability to describe a moment, a facet of time and space. It's the flux and flow of life in public that fascinates me.
MF : How would you describe your unique style in street photography?
DH : Not sure how unique my style is, but I have strived for a consistent approach to my photography that begins with a deep respect for the way the camera is able to describe the reflected light of a piece of reality. Which for me means exposing and processing for maximum detail that camera and film or silicon allows. I want my pictures to have the appearance of truth. What the viewer makes of the pictures "facts" is up to them.
MF : What strategies do you use to remain inconspicuous while capturing candid moments?
DH : Most of the time I don't try to remain inconspicuous. In most public events I am openly taking pictures. I will say that I do have to put up with some performative reactions from people, but I also want to be true to myself, so it would be against my nature to be sneaky. When people do call me out about why I'm taking pictures, for the most part the exchanges are positive.
Malcolm X on TV, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 1974 © Don Hudson
MF : Are there any specific themes or areas you'd like to explore further in your street photography?
DH : What I have been exploring in recent years, and what I will continue to do, is photographing small town parades and associated community events. And it is a particular emphasis on small and mostly rural towns.
Many of Don Hudson’s prints in our gallery collection “Photographs from the Last Century 1973-1983” are newly featured in the limited edition book “Can I Get A Witness” published by Eyeshot. Hudson’s natural style turns everyday moments into compelling images of American culture, addressing emotions like joy, loss, hope, and isolation. His original photographs depict life as it happens, allowing viewers to find their own meanings. Recognized as a great storyteller, Hudson’s work makes the ordinary seem extraordinary, inspiring documentary photographers and fans. “Can I Get A Witness” showcases the importance of realness in capturing the spirit of a time.