Automatic, for the people

What fun tonight to tune in to a conversation between one of my great heroes, former REM front-person and keen photographer Michael Stipe (who, unbelievably, turned 62 earlier this week), and renowned photographer Martin Parr (see Extra).

The conversation centred on the stories behind pictures from Stipe’s three most recent books of photographs, and his approach to photography in general. www.martinparrfoundation.org/product/untitled

Rather endearingly, Parr seemed to have very little grasp of pop culture or Stipe’s stellar career, whilst Stipe was clearly a genuine fan of Parr’s work and admitted to being nervous about talking with him.

Here’s one of my favourite REM songs, ‘Cuyahoga’ https://youtube.com/watch?v=Fv8S_kFlpJQ

“Take a picture here, take a souvenir.”