Bells Quote by Margaret Bourke-White
“I like to hide my camera and use a remote control, because then no one knows when I'm actually imprisoning their souls in the visual plane of thought or just sitting there, waiting, and then making time stop. The printed film is like a bell used to symbolize its hour. Except it stands for both that hour's and everything's sudden stopping.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Photography Reflections, 1935
She likens photographing people to imprisoning their souls, and the film’s static image to a bell marking a moment’s sudden halt.
In simple terms: Photography freezes moments, capturing essence.
Key Takeaway
Use images to preserve fleeting experiences.
Themes
art
photography
time
perception
Mood
thoughtful
poetic
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- gallery displays
- portrait sessions
- documentary work
Key Concepts
Visual metaphor
ephemerality
memory
Questions to Reflect On
- What ethical lines exist in photography?
- How does a photograph alter memory?
A Different Perspective
Capturing souls can feel invasive.
