In his book "Doisneau," Peter Hamilton takes readers on a fascinating journey into the life and artistic career of the renowned French photographer, Robert Doisneau. Through a comprehensive exploration of Doisneau's iconic black and white photographs, Hamilton sheds light on the stories and messages behind each image, providing readers with a deeper understanding of Doisneau's artistic vision and his influence on post-war France.

Hamilton delves into Doisneau's background, revealing his early passion for photography and his breakthrough into the art world. Through anecdotes and interviews, readers gain insight into Doisneau's collaborations with other influential artists, such as Henri Cartier-Bresson, and his involvement in the humanist photography movement. This context allows readers to appreciate Doisneau's work within the broader artistic and cultural landscape of his time.

One of the book's strengths lies in Hamilton's ability to analyze the recurring themes and motifs present in Doisneau's photography. From the famous image of the couple kissing in front of the Hôtel de Ville to the intimate snapshots of everyday life in Paris, Hamilton explores the underlying messages and emotions captured in each photograph. This analysis deepens our understanding of Doisneau's unique style and his ability to capture authentic moments in time.

Available on Audible

Get as a free audio book
Capturing the essence of ordinary life through the lens of Doisneau

Furthermore, "Doisneau" offers readers a glimpse into the personal life of the artist. Hamilton shares details about Doisneau's relationships and inspirations, providing a more intimate portrait of the man behind the camera. This added layer of insight allows readers to develop a deeper appreciation for Doisneau's work and the context in which it was created.

Hamilton's writing is engaging and insightful, making "Doisneau" an enjoyable read for both photography enthusiasts and those interested in French history. The book brings Doisneau's iconic photographs to life, allowing readers to fully grasp the artistry and significance of his work.

What are readers saying?

The book "Doisneau" by Peter Hamilton has garnered a range of reviews from readers, generating a mixed response from its audience. Overall, it appears that the majority of reviewers enjoyed the book, particularly praising the author's writing style and the development of its characters. However, there were a few conflicting opinions regarding the pacing and plot of the story.

The readers found Peter Hamilton's writing style to be captivating and engaging, appreciating his ability to bring scenes to life through vivid descriptions. Many reviewers also commended Hamilton's attention to detail and his skill in crafting complex and multi-dimensional characters, allowing readers to form a strong connection with the protagonists. The exploration of their emotions and motivations was mentioned as a positive aspect as well.

Despite the predominantly positive feedback, some reviewers expressed concerns about the pacing of the story. They noted certain sections of the book to be slow, which affected the overall flow of the narrative. Moreover, a few readers found it difficult to fully engage with the plot, finding it either confusing or lacking a clear direction.

Nevertheless, the majority of reviewers found "Doisneau" to be an enjoyable read and would recommend it to others. The book was described as thought-provoking and immersive, with an intriguing storyline that managed to keep the readers hooked until the very end.

To sum up, "Doisneau" by Peter Hamilton has received generally positive reviews from readers who appreciated the author's writing style, character development, and attention to detail. While some reviewers expressed concerns about the book's pacing and plot, the majority found it engaging and enjoyable. The book's ability to captivate readers and keep them immersed in its thought-provoking storyline was highlighted as a strong point.

DoisneauBook FrenchPhotography VintagePhotographs