“To speak of a city with photography, different elements of language are available to us. The simplest, most direct one is the cliché. To communicate the identity of this city, we begin with an emblem of the city, a symbol. The location thereby becomes recognizable to all.
Alternatively, one can begin with more specific details: a window, a door knob. It is interesting to see how the soul of a city is contained within the smallest detail. Between the symbolic and metonymic approaches there is a range of possible metaphors. It is the choice of these three levels of language that will allow us to account for the expression of a city through visual details.
A panorama, a distinctive architectural element. After a while we start seeking out the smallest specificities. But deep down, to situate or locate is not the real goal. Rather, the idea was to talk about what it feels like to be in this city.
I don’t consider myself a photographer but I’ve always taken pictures. When I scout locations, I take visual notes that will help me in the conception of the film. Ideas for locations, decorations, editing, characters, but also for different scenes and the script.”
Cédric Klapisch
Read the full article on the French version of L’Oeil de la Photographie.
EXHIBITION
Paris – New York
Cédric Klapisch
From September 4th to October 18th, 2014
Galerie Cinéma – Anne-Dominique Toussaint
26, rue Saint-Claude
75003 Paris
France
