The green-eyed ‘Afghan Girl’ made world-famous by Steve McCurry’s 1985 National Geographic magazine cover has arrived in Italy after the Italian Prime Minister answered her call for help in leaving Afghanistan following the takeover of the Taliban in August.
This is the disturbing story behind the iconic “Afghan Girl” photo
Although it sparked some controversy, Steve McCurry’s “Afghan Girl” is an iconic image that has influenced and inspired many people. Tony Northup wanted to talk about how this image inspired him, but then he learned the story behind it – and it wasn’t pretty. The truth behind how this legendary photo was taken is sad and disturbing, and Tony shares it in this video.
Follow up to Eyes of the Afghan Girl – A critical take on the “Steve McCurry Scandal”
While a follow up was already planned, after publishing the previous post and the subsequent, staggering response generated in support, appreciation, comments, critique and criticism I felt the need to also address certain things as well as perhaps reiterate and underline certain points. I also want to fill certain spaces left over in the previous post.
Let me begin again by reiterating that the previous opinion piece (and this follow up) is not an attack or attempt to defame Steve McCurry, it is only to throw light on certain aspects as well as bring some attention to the questions that plague visual journalism, especially in the past few years.
Eyes of the Afghan Girl – A critical take on the “Steve McCurry Scandal”
I will begin by saying that my intention is not to attack Steve McCurry or defame him in any manner. It is only an attempt to clear certain facts that have come to light regarding his work and to also raise certain questions on aspects that may or may not have been missed, but certainly have not been expressed till now, atleast not publicly. McCurry is an inspiring figure to many, therefore in the light of recent events, a close examination of his photographs and his practice has already been done, I only want to take it a few steps further.
Renowned photojournalist Steve McCurry sits down for an insightful interview with Nikon
American photographer Steve McCurry, most known for his 1984 portrait entitled ‘Afghan Girl’ has captured some of the most iconic images of the 20th and 21st century. A longtime photographer for National Geographic, Magnum Photos and many others, his career spans the globe and his legacy has only just begun.
It’s not often we get to look into the mind of the man, but in a recent interview, Nikon Europe sat down with McCurry to pick his brain about his thought on gear, his work and what it takes to truly become a the photographer you want to be.[Read More…]
Steve McCurry’s Assistant Arrested in $654,358 ‘Afghan Girl’ Art Theft Case
The famous photographer, best known for his ‘Afghan Girl’ photograph which graced the cover of National Geographic, will soon be looking for a new manager of fine art print sales after his current one was charged with theft and related offenses.
According to Chester (PA) County District Attorney Tom Hogan, Bree DeStephano stole prints, books and other items valued at $654,358 from Steve McCurry’s studio and sold them for her own profit.
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