As a photographer who had the privilege of assisting Steve McCurry early in my career, coming full circle to document his photographic journey through the vibrant streets of Palermo and Naples was a particularly meaningful experience. Armed with our Leica SL2S cameras, we set out to capture the soul of Southern Italy through two distinct lenses – his capturing the scenes before him, and mine capturing the master at work.
The streets of Palermo and Naples provided the perfect backdrop for McCurry's signature style. These cities, with their labyrinthine alleys, sun-weathered facades, and the ever-present pulse of daily life, offered exactly the kind of rich visual tapestry that Steve has become renowned for capturing throughout his career. Watching him work with the SL2S was a masterclass in itself – his methodical approach, his patience in waiting for the perfect moment, and his innate ability to find extraordinary stories in ordinary scenes remained as sharp as ever.
What struck me most was how seamlessly McCurry adapted to the Leica SL2S. Having documented his process, I observed how the camera's capabilities complemented his shooting style. The camera's exceptional low-light performance proved invaluable as we navigated the shadowy vicoli of both cities, while its superior autofocus system helped capture those fleeting moments that make McCurry's work so distinctive.
During breaks between shoots, Steve and I discussed how digital photography has evolved. He shared insights about how the SL2S's features allowed him to maintain his iconic visual style while taking advantage of modern technology. The camera's durability was particularly appreciated as we moved through the busy streets and markets, dealing with everything from bright Mediterranean sunlight to unexpected rain showers.
As both a filmmaker and photographer on this project, the SL2S proved to be an incredibly versatile tool. The camera's video capabilities allowed me to capture stunning footage of Steve at work, while also maintaining the exceptional image quality Leica is known for. The ability to switch seamlessly between photo and video modes meant I could document both still and moving moments without missing a beat.
This experience was a powerful reminder of how photography connects generations of image-makers. From my early days assisting Steve to now documenting his work, the journey has come full circle. It's a testament to how the art of photography continues to evolve while maintaining its core essence – the pursuit of capturing moments that tell compelling stories.
The streets of Palermo and Naples, through McCurry's lens and my documentation, revealed themselves as timeless canvases where tradition and modernity coexist. This project not only showcased the capabilities of the Leica SL2S but also demonstrated how master photographers like Steve McCurry continue to find fresh perspectives in familiar places.
As this project wrapped, I couldn't help but reflect on how fortunate I was to document one of photography's living legends at work. It was a reminder that great photography isn't just about the equipment – it's about the eye behind the viewfinder and the story being told. Though both Steve and I were working with the same camera model, we each brought our unique perspectives to documenting these beautiful Italian cities.