Need a Good Photography Documentary? Check Out What’s on Netflix!

We love a good photography documentary, and there are plenty of them on Netflix.
A photography documentary is a great way to consume the art form you love. From the educational to the eye-opening, there’s a photography documentary for all your wants and needs. Popular streaming site, Netflix, has hours of awesome content for the photography fan. So, in an invitation to “Netflix and chill,” (in the clean sense) let’s take a look at some of the best photography documentaries you can watch on Netflix.
The B-Side: Elsa Dorfman’s Portrait Photography
Friends with the likes of Bob Dylan and having photographed people like Anne Sexton, Elsa Dorfman is a big deal. Her career spans over 50 years, and in this photography documentary she takes you through it step by step. Sharing her passion for Large Format Polaroid, Dorfman explains why she loves the medium so much. Expect gripping tales of her career, as well as a showcase of some of her early works. It’s a fascinating watch, and one you need to see.
Tales by Light
Tales by Light is a photography documentary on Netflix spread across three seasons. Developed by Canon and National Geographic, the show follows professional photographers around the world, as they document different environments and stories. The show includes photographers such as Art Wolfe, Angela Scott, and Eric Cheng, plus plenty of others. You’ll be able to get an in-depth look at how the pros photograph tribes, sea life, and nature. This program is certainly binge-worthy!
Hondros
Written by Greg Campbell and Jenny Golden, Hondros is a documentary that looks at the life and work of the late war photographer, Chris Hondros. It’s an eye-opening (and heartbreaking) insight into the world of war photography. Hondros had an indestructible passion for showing the world the turmoil humanity faces. So much so, he was prepared to put his own life at risk in order to document wars around the world. It’s the kind of documentary that once you start watching you won’t be able to stop. It’s a beautiful sign of respect for a photographer who risked so much.
Abstract: The Art of Design – Platon
This episode of the popular Netflix series focuses on the work of portrait photographer, Platon. It offers a much-needed insight into the work that happens beyond the camera. Platon expertly demonstrates the power of human empathy and the importance of building rapport. From photographing the world’s most famous people to the painful story of abuse, Platon provides a masterclass on how to get the best out of your subject. No matter what genre you enjoy, this should appeal to all types of photographers.
Your Favorite Photography Documentary
Depending on where you are in the world, you’ll have access to different photography documentaries. After enjoying the five featured above, drop a comment below and let us know what we and everyone else needs to watch.
Be sure to check the best photography documentaries on YouTube!