Dorothea Lange: Photographers to Know

Dorothea Lange is one of the most important photographers in history. Her documentary work during the Great Depression changed how Americans understood their own country, and her approach to subjects with empathy and patience remains a model for documentary photographers today. This video is an introduction to her life and work.

Black and White Film for Documentary Work

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Dorothea Lange?

Dorothea Lange (1895-1965) was an American documentary photographer whose work during the Great Depression remains among the most powerful in the history of the medium. Her photograph Migrant Mother, taken in 1936, is one of the most recognized images ever made. She worked for the Farm Security Administration and documented the human cost of poverty and displacement.

What can modern film photographers learn from Dorothea Lange?

Lange demonstrated that photography has the power to change public opinion when it is done with empathy and patience. She waited for the defining moment, built trust with her subjects, and always approached people with respect. These are enduring principles for any photographer working with real people.

What black and white film is best for documentary photography?

Ilford HP5 Plus 400 is the most recommended B&W film for documentary and street photography. It is versatile, forgiving with exposure, and produces classic grain. Browse all B&W film here.