Saul Leiter

About the Author

Saul Leiter (1923–2013) was an American photographer and painter whose innovative approach to color photography revolutionized the medium in the mid-20th century. Born in Pittsburgh to a Jewish family, Leiter initially pursued painting in New York City, studying under Hans Hofmann, before turning to photography in the late 1940s. His work, characterized by abstract compositions, fragmented forms, and a masterful use of color and light, captured the poetry of urban life, particularly in the rain-slicked streets of Manhattan. Leiter's images often blurred the lines between abstraction and representation, influencing generations of photographers. Shy and reclusive, he avoided the spotlight, allowing his photographs to speak for themselves. His legacy endures through collections like Saul Leiter (Photofile), which showcases his timeless vision of the everyday sublime.