Howzit to all 26 new readers who've joined this week!
Saturday Selections now has 5316 readers.

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It certainly feels like spring is just around the corner! I hope you're having an awesome weekend wherever you are in the world.

In high school, I had the good fortune of spending my afternoons at the local library while waiting for my mum to pick me up.

For a bookworm like me, this was heaven. But it also became something more—it was where I stumbled upon a whole new world of art. Not just books on classical artists but also on film and, of course, photography.

I didn’t realize it then, but those afternoons were planting seeds—visual ideas that would take root over the decades and shape how I see the world through my camera.

I’ve noticed this throughout my career: photographers who create work with real depth—images that stick with you—often own shelves full of photo books. It’s not a coincidence.

Back in the ’90s, my exposure to photography was limited to what I could find in that little library. But that was enough to open my eyes to something bigger.

Today, we have access to everything—almost every photograph is just a click away. And while that’s incredible, it can also be overwhelming. Where do you even start?

That’s one of the reasons I started The Photographic Eye—to help people navigate this ocean of inspiration and discover what lies beyond the obvious.

But if you’re unsure where to begin, I recommend starting with a book like The Photographer’s Eye or The History of Photography as a springboard.

Even better? Being part of a community of photographers who can introduce you to their favourites. We recently did this during one of our TPE Zoom chats, and the range of photographers people shared was incredible. It reminded me just how much there is left to discover.

Now, I’d love your help with a little experiment.

I want to create a PDF resource—a guide filled with well-known, lesser-known, and hidden-gem photographers categorized by genre. The goal is to help break the cycle of the same recommendations popping up over and over again.

Here’s how you can help:​
Send me a quick email with:

1. The name of one of your favourite photographers
2. A link to their work
3. The genre you think they belong to

Once I’ve gathered enough recommendations, I’ll share the finished PDF in an upcoming newsletter.

Let’s build something that inspires us all to see photography and the world differently.

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2025 Photo Events

There are only a few spaces left for the Boston TPE weekend and just a couple for the meet-up in Vienna.

At past events, it’s been incredible to see photographers come together—sharing ideas, sparking inspiration, and proving that photography is about so much more than social media likes.
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Here's a video I've released about how I pack and plan for these trips.

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If you'd like to ask me more questions about these trips - book a call here​

Photographer Of The Week

Rober Mapplethorpe

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Robert Mapplethorpe (1946–1989) was an American photographer known for his bold black-and-white images. While a lot of attention goes to the more provocative side of his work, another layer is just as powerful—his portraits and flower studies.

His portraits are sharp, simple, and full of presence. He photographed everyone from Patti Smith to Andy Warhol, capturing something raw and honest in each shot. There’s no fuss—just clean lines, striking lighting, and a real focus on the person before the lens. The result feels intimate and iconic, like you’re seeing someone exactly as they are, but also more.

Then there are his flower photos, which might seem like a complete shift but carry the same intensity. He shot close-ups of calla lilies, orchids, and tulips, turning them into something almost sculptural. Even though they’re just flowers, they come across as bold and dramatic—every curve, shadow, and texture feels amplified. It’s simple, but it grabs you.

His portraits and flower work are centred on form and detail. Nothing feels accidental. His clarity and confidence in his vision still make his work feel fresh and relevant today.

​https://www.mapplethorpe.org/​

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A little while back, I made a video about how Robert used shapes in his photography.
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Weekly Challenge

Last week, I asked you to share your favourite photos with portraits as the concept. Here are some of my favourites. Also, a reminder to please make sure you follow the naming structure INITIAL_SURNAME so I can credit you :D
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The three most popular uploads this week were:
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This week I've done something new and recorded a little Loom video about these images:
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Thanks to everyone who uploaded images!
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This coming week, the challenge will be on SHAPE.
The shape should be the main focus of the photo or contribute to the image as dominant feature
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Please upload your photos here https://www.picdrop.com/tpe/URgsnanf9E​

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Community Recap

There's been some great photography and discussion going on in the TPE tribe this week.
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Get a seven-day free trial which includes classes, and previous interviews with professional photographers here​
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Thanks so much for taking the time to be here today. Have a great weekend.
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Alex

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