Photographers of Australia

1992, 43 Minutes

World-acclaimed photographers Max Dupain, Wolfgang Sievers and David Moore have captured the changes in Australia’s character for more than 60 years; and through examining their work, this film explores popular representations of postwar Australia.

Wolfgang Sievers fled Nazi Germany before the Second World War. He arrived in Australia to find a photographic tradition that favoured idyllic landscapes and sentimental portraits. But in the nation’s factories, Sievers discovered subjects more suited to his purpose. There his camera sought the design to be found in everyday life.

Max Dupain is perhaps the most recognised and internationally acclaimed photographer Australia has produced. He shared Wolfgang’s concern for the themes and forms revealed by ordinary life. On Sydney beaches and in city streets he created many of his most memorable images - photographs that seem to typify Australia in the post-war decades.

David Moore began his photographic career working in Max Dupain’s studio, before travelling to Britain, where he launched his career as a photo-journalist. Moore was to work for Life magazine, Time and The Observer before returning to Australia in the late 1950s.

In their photographic works Max Dupain, Wolfgang Sievers and David Moore capture the beauty of the natural landscape, the construction of modern-day cities, the work and play of those who live in them. Their images show Australia becoming what it is today.

A Film Australia Production. Concept developed by Paper Bark Films Pty Limited. © 2011 National Film and Sound Archive of Australia.