Magnum Photos

Magnum Photos was founded in 1947, two years after the Second World War. It owes its existence to four photographers – Henri Cartier-Bresson, Robert Capa, George Rodger and David ‘Chim’ Seymour – who created Magnum in their own image. Magnum is interested as much in how to a thing should be viewed as in the thing itself.

Initially based in Paris and New York (and now in London and Tokyo), Magnum departed radically from conventional media practice of the day: firstly through its structure as a cooperative owned by photographers, and secondly by demanding that copyright be owned in full by the photographers themselves.

In Magnum Photos, photographers gained independence, a vital corollary to accepting work. The choice and length of their reports, selection of photos, ownership of negatives, possession of copyright and control over dissemination were all theirs, as they imposed their authorship of their work.

The recruitment of new members faithful to the agency’s principles is a demanding process: the candidate is observed for a period of four to eight years before being awarded the status of member and finally shareholder.

All of this demonstrates its unique nature, both in its photographic style and in the rigour and persistence of its work compiling documentation and information.

Although it is a long and meticulous process, this work allows Magnum to portray numerous approaches to reality as it represents their creators.

Today the collective includes around 80 photographers, 60 of whom are members.

7 May 8 pm, Chiostri di San Pietro

Exile– Magnum Photos Collective. Guided tour with Karin Friesenbichler