Inspiring documentaries that will make you want to pick up a camera and start photographing
When this article was written these documentaries were showing on Netflix Australia.
Here is a roundup of some inspirational photography documentaries for photographers of any skill level. These photographers from the past and present will surely fuel your creativity and encourage you to start photography, even if you're not a photographer.
The B-Side: Elsa Dorfman's Portrait Photography (2016)
This is a look at the life and work of portrait photographer Elsa Dorfman. Who found her medium in 1980: the larger-than-life Polaroid Land 20x24 camera. Thereafter for the next thirty-five years, she captured those who visited her Cambridge, Massachusetts studio. This included families, Beat poets, rock stars, and Harvard notables. Available on Netflix Australia.
Tales By Light (2018)
Beautifully made Australian documentary featuring Darren Jew, Art Wolfe, Krystle Wright as they travel the world capturing indelible images of people, places, creatures and cultures. Available on Netflix Australia.
SHOT! The Psycho-Spiritual Mantra of Rock (2016)
SHOT! delves into the life of legendary rock photographer Mick Rock. Available on Netflix Australia.
HONDROS (2017)
Documents war photographer Chris Hondros as he risks his life to capture some amazing photographs from conflicts around the world. Available on Netflix Australia.
Highly Recommended
Ansel Adams: A Documentary Film (2002)
Considered one of the greatest landscape photographers. Watch on YouTube.
Finding Vivian Maier (2013)
Vivian Maier is considered as one of the 20th century's greatest street photographers, she was a mysterious nanny who secretly took over 100,000 photographs that went unseen during her lifetime.
Available to buy or stream on Amazon Prime
Bill Cunningham New York (2011)
Bill Cunningham documents fashion on the streets of New York - Watch on YouTube Premium
The Many Lives of William Klein (2012)
William Klein has pioneered the art of street photography and created some of the most iconic fashion images of the 20th century. Including the first-ever documentary about Muhammad Ali.
