Obituary – Cause of Death : Photographer Elliott Erwitt, master of the ‘decisive moment’, dies at 95

Death – Obituary News : Renowned photographer Elliott Erwitt has passed away at the age of 95. Erwitt was known for his ability to capture the extraordinary in everyday moments, spanning a career of seven decades. His work was greatly influenced by his mentor Henri Cartier-Bresson and his concept of the “decisive moment.”

Photographer Elliott Erwitt has died aged 95. “In a body of work spanning seven decades, he proved a master of what his mentor Henri Cartier-Bresson called seizing the ‘decisive moment’ — being trigger-quick to observe the extraordinary in the ordinary…” – Glenn Rifkin pic.twitter.com/mtMrOCrOFZ

— EdwardMO (@EdwardHMO) December 1, 2023

Renowned photographer Elliott Erwitt, known for his ability to capture the extraordinary in the ordinary, has passed away at the age of 95. His death marks the end of an era in the world of photography.

Born on July 26, 1928, in Paris, France, Erwitt’s passion for photography began at a young age. He moved to the United States with his family in 1939, where he continued to develop his skills and love for the art form. Erwitt studied photography at the Los Angeles City College and later attended the New School for Social Research in New York City.

Throughout his illustrious career spanning seven decades, Erwitt became a master of capturing the decisive moment, a term coined by his mentor Henri Cartier-Bresson. He had an unmatched ability to seize fleeting moments of beauty and irony, often found in everyday life. His photographs showcased a unique blend of humor, empathy, and a keen eye for composition.

Erwitt’s body of work encompassed a wide range of subjects, from street scenes and landscapes to portraits of famous individuals. Some of his most iconic photographs include the image of a young boy with a gun and a dog in the background, titled “California, 1955,” and the photograph of Marilyn Monroe on the set of “The Misfits.”

His photographs were exhibited in galleries and museums around the world, and his work was published in numerous books and magazines. Erwitt’s legacy as one of the greatest photographers of his generation is cemented by his ability to capture the essence of human emotion and the beauty of everyday life.

Glenn Rifkin, a journalist and friend of Erwitt, said, “In a body of work spanning seven decades, he proved a master of what his mentor Henri Cartier-Bresson called seizing the ‘decisive moment’ — being trigger-quick to observe the extraordinary in the ordinary.”

Elliott Erwitt’s passing is a tremendous loss for the world of photography. His captivating images will continue to inspire and evoke emotions for generations to come. His legacy as a visionary artist will forever be cherished and remembered..

Condolences

@EdwardHMO said Photographer Elliott Erwitt has died aged 95. “In a body of work spanning seven decades, he proved a master of what his mentor Henri Cartier-Bresson called seizing the 'decisive moment' — being trigger-quick to observe the extraordinary in the ordinary…”