george hurrell

By: Hannah Able

Born in 1904 in Covington, KY

At the age of 8 Hurrell took an interest in drawing and painting.

Studied at the Art Institute of Chicago

It’s all so simple – no one believes me … you

strike a pose, then you light it. Then you

clown around and get some action in the

expressions. Then, you shoot.

-George Hurrell

Edgar Alwyn Payne

“If you plan to be a serious artist, you should come back with me to Laguna Beach and paint. This is

where it is all happening.”

“He developed the lighting techniques and visual vocabulary that gave Hollywood stars their special aura of grace, mystery, and perfection.” -Virginia Postrel

George Hurrell helped make stars like Clark Gable (Gone with the Wind) with his amazing photos. Hurrell used lights to show the lines and shadows of faces, creating a dramatic affect.

Hurrell’s photos of Jean Harlow are his most known works.

In this photo George Hurrell uses lighting to enhance her bone structure.

Hurrell uses hard light to create high contrast.

This photo shows high key.

In this photo of Jane Russell, Hurrell uses back light from one side and front light. He uses this lighting to show emphasis on her

shoulder and collar bone.

This photo of Jean Harlow has great contrast and form.

Both these photos use the golden spiral.

This photo portrays a strong emotion of love and devotion.

George Hurrell set the bar for all great portraits. His photographs continue to inspire photographers today.

Many of today's photographers try and recreate the styles of Hurrell.

www.georgehurrell.com

www.hurrelleditions.com/biography.html

www.hurrellphotos.com/

www.independent.co.uk

www.artnet.com