Sally Mann

The documentary on Sally Mann was very interesting - it's fascinating how she captures her life through photographs. The series of her children, as well as the pictures of her husband and dogs are not only beautiful, but powerful because they perfectly depict her life. She stresses the significance of photographing things you love. Consequently, Sally's photographs in the earlier part of her life were of her immediate family and landscapes.

However, after witnessing the shooting of a robber on the property of her farm.. things began to change. Sally said "something thats a feeling turns into a photograph,"which is exactly what happened after witnessing the shooting. She soon had a fascination with death, thus she created a series of photographs that portrayed life and death. Sally seemed fearless when it came to death. A very poignant part of the documentary for me is when she takes photographs at the human decomposing site. She had no fear touching the bodies or simply being surrounded by the dead. The documentary footage of the bodies sent chills up my spine and I admire Sally for being so fearless - just accepting death for what it is, which is a part of life.

The documentary also touched on the hardships many artists face. It was heartbreaking to see the NYC gallery cancel Sally Mann's exhibit. She put SO much work and effort into those photographs and it amazed me that a gallery could just cancel her show with a snap of their fingers. It truly depicts that everything is a business and if something may not be a money maker than there is no chance at success or recognition. It is very unfortunate.

I learned a lot about photography through this documentary. I also loved learning about Sally Mann's life - she is a very inspirational figure.