Apple Tree 1922

Alfred Stieglitz made this photograph of an apple tree, using photographic paper, sometime around the early 20th century. I can imagine him watching the wind rustle the leaves, and the light changing the shades of gray, thinking about how he can capture the essence of this tree, its presence and vitality. What kind of film did he use? How long did he have to wait? Did he need to develop it immediately? Was he worried that someone else would come and pick all the apples? I get a sense of intimacy and reverence, like he’s trying to understand its place in the world. There is something very honest in the way the photograph is composed. I like the contrast between the dark trunk and the lighter leaves. And how the apples are visible, each like a little bulb, giving an impression of abundance. Stieglitz, like painters, was drawn to the possibilities of representation and the unique qualities of his chosen medium. Artists are always looking at each other's work, thinking, how can I do that with my materials? How can I make an apple tree sing?