Films (and inspiration) for Photographers
One Short, Two Features, and a Lot of Fun
Even when a movie isn’t about photography, I often draw inspiration from it. I pay attention to the lighting, composition, establishing shots, and close-ups while trying to keep up with the plot. I’m fascinated by the art of filmmaking.
It gets even better when the creative force behind a movie is a photographer. And on that note, I have a few movies to share with you today.
In 4 Minutes: A Must-See Short Film Introducing Simon Murphy's Photoautomat Project
In 4 Minutes is a captivating short film by filmmaker Adam Holmes of Focas Media, in collaboration with renowned photographer Simon Murphy. This thoughtful piece explores Murphy’s Photoautomat project, offering an intimate look at the creative process set amidst the vibrant and gritty streets of Berlin.
Murphy, a celebrated photographer, lecturer, and Chair of the MPB Scottish Portrait Awards, brings his evocative storytelling to the forefront. His narration weaves through the film, transforming it into more than just a behind-the-scenes glimpse. It becomes a poetic reflection on creativity itself, as Murphy ponders how projects “find us,” the importance of curiosity, and the artistic freedom that can be found within constraint.
The film showcases the wonder of Berlin’s vintage photo booths—quirky remnants of another era that are still scattered across the city—and the “spaces” explored by Murphy, who is dressed as an astronaut. These booths serve as both a literal and metaphorical focus for his work, representing moments of chance, fleeting encounters, and, of course, photography.
My Take:
I love this short. You can view it on your laptop or mobile device. The narration is excellent, the imagery is creative and gritty at the same time, and the message is inspiring.
Worth 4 minutes of your time (or in my case, 8 minutes - I’ve watched it twice.)
You can read the entire article and watch the movie on FStoppers.com.
Lee - Starring Kate Winslet
The story of photographer Elizabeth 'Lee' Miller, a fashion model who became an acclaimed war correspondent for Vogue magazine during World War II.
I’m a big fan of Kate Winslet’s acting and look forward to streaming this film.
It’s available for $5.99 on YouTube, Apple TV, Amazon Prime, Google Play Movie, and Fandango At Home.
I haven’t watched the movie yet, but Kate was on 60 Minutes last week, and you can see what she has to say about learning how to shoot with a Rollieflex and channeling the photography of Lee Miller.
You can watch the 5-minute video here. My guess is, you’ll want to see the movie after that.
Kodachrome (2017)
Matt Ryder (Jason Sudeikis) is convinced to drive his estranged and dying father Benjamin Ryder (Ed Harris) cross country to deliver four old rolls of Kodachrome film to the last lab in the world that can develop them before it shuts down for good. Along with Ben's nurse Zooey (Elizabeth Olsen), the three navigate a world changing from analog to digital while trying to put the past behind them.
I streamed this movie on Netflix when it was first released. Ed Harris plays his role masterfully. At the time, Jason Sudeikis wasn’t on my radar as he is today (thanks to his role as a soccer coach, Ted Lasso). So here we are, 7 years later, and I need to see this movie again.
Film photographers, especially anyone who’s ever shot a roll of Kodachrome, will appreciate the movie’s plot. And Harris, Sudeikis, and Olsen provide top-notch performances.
Check out this trailer and see what you think.
Workshops!
An Opening for Our Costa Rica Workshop
A last-minute space has just opened up for our Costa Rica Photography Workshop, January 7-15, 2025. You can read all of the details and sign up by visiting our Costa Rica Workshop page.
The event is co-lead by Rob Knight and myself. Our group is limited to 10 participants. We've lined up guides, transportation, accommodations, and meals. All you have to do is pack your bag and book a flight.
If you have any questions about the Costa Rica event, send me an email at dstory@gmail.com.
Hope to see you in Costa Rica!