Hungarian 19th-20th century American photographer
(Hungary, 1894 - 1985, New York City, New York)
Kertész began taking photographs at the age of 12, and throughout his life, concentrated on the timeless essential qualities of day-to-day events. In 1914, he served in the Austro-Hungarian army. From 1922 to 1925, Kertész lived in Paris, selling his photographs for 25 francs in order to make a living. In 1937, he moved to New York City and began his association with "Harper's Bazaar," "Vogue," and "Colliers" magazines. His work often concentrates on abstract shapes and shadows created by ordinary objects. After a serious illness, Kertész canceled his contracts with magazines and worked as a freelance photographer until his death.