Four Pioneers in Photography and Travel Journalism from National Geographic

Here is another great photography book from National Geographic, Odysseys and Photographs. I was kindly sent this book for a review. (see my past reviews of Visions of Paradise from National Geographic and The Life of a Photographer – Sam Abell.) In this case the book shows the works of four great National Geographic “field men”: Maynard Owen Williams (1919 – 1953), Luis Marden (1934 – 1976), Volkmar Wentzel (1937 – 1985) and Thomas Abercrombie (1956 – 1994). All four also wrote the stories they photographed. If you are a fan of classic National Geographic photography this is a book for you.

I have saved many of my old National Geographics as a subscriber since the 1970s. I have also picked up some older ones at second hand book stores. This book is like a greatest hits from that collection, which it is in fact. I could not stop looking at the wonderful pictures of exotic locations from the 20th century, especially the first half.

It was hard to pick a favorite. I started liking Maynard Owen Williams as he represented the oldest grouping of pictures. Seeing exotic places in the 1920s and 30s remains hard to top. I especially liked the pictures he took on the first overland expedition across Asia since Marco Polo’s efforts. He was the lone American in this group sponsored by Andre Citroen, the French automaker. They departed in 1931 and encountered numerous adventures, including a 2,300 mile retreat from a Chinese war lord.

However, as I looked at each one it became impossible to pick a favorite. It is hard to top Thomas Abercrombie’s picture of an elderly shepherdess with her small flock as the spot lighted foreground for a panoramic view of lamasery in the high mountains of northern India.

Sam Abell wrote the epilogue and discussed the inspiration that these four photographers provided to his generation. The book tells their story and provides highlights of their work. It is treasure that calls for frequent visits.

Comments

[Lana]

I've got this book on my shelf right now, myself. Some interesting shots, for sure. :)

[Bill Ives]

Lana

Thanks for your comment. It is a great book. BIll

[wide beam canal boats]

Excellent photo.I enjoyed a lot while reading.Thanks for sharing!