Skip to content

Bases Quote by Jack Delano

“I don't know that there were any rules for documentary photography. As a matter of fact, I don't think the term was even very precise. So as far as I'm concerned, the kind of photography I did in the FSA was the kind of photography I still do today, because it is based on passionate concern for…” quote by Jack Delano
Download Open image
“I don't know that there were any rules for documentary photography. As a matter of fact, I don't think the term was even very precise. So as far as I'm concerned, the kind of photography I did in the FSA was the kind of photography I still do today, because it is based on passionate concern for the human condition. That is the basis of all the work that I do.”

Jack Delano

About This Quote

Source Documentary: Farm Security Administration photography, 1930s-1940s

He emphasizes that documentary photography is guided by deep empathy for humanity rather than strict rules.

In simple terms: Human empathy drives documentary work.

Key Takeaway

Focus on compassion, not conventions.

Themes

humanity empathy photography ethics

Mood

reflective inspired

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • photojournalism
  • community projects
  • human rights advocacy

Key Concepts

social documentary visual storytelling

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does empathy shape your visual narrative?
  • What responsibilities arise from portraying human suffering?
A Different Perspective

May lack technical guidelines for consistency.

3.5 out of 5 (10 ratings)

More Bases quotes

Browse all 2,701 Bases quotes