Lee Friedlander, the venerable street photographer now aged 92, continues to captivate audiences with his distinctive approach to capturing everyday scenes. Known for his keen eye and formal composition, Friedlander’s latest book, "Life Still," published earlier this year, offers a fresh perspective on his work, revealing a pronounced focus on humor within his imagery.

Residing in New City, New York, Friedlander discussed his creative process during a recent visit to his home. He emphasized that humor is a central element in many of his photographs. When asked what prompted him to take a particular shot, he consistently responded, “It’s really funny,” highlighting his intent to find and reveal moments of wit amid urban environments.

Friedlander’s photography has long drawn critical acclaim for its intricate compositions, often featuring layered elements such as reflections, shadows, and structural lines that divide the frame. These aspects encourage viewers to pause and discern the order underlying seemingly chaotic street scenes. While humor might not be the initial reaction to his work, Friedlander’s new collection suggests it has been a subtle yet integral component all along.

The photographer himself has remarked on the nature of the medium, noting that photographers generally “don’t make anything” but rather “find things.” Through the sequencing of images in "Life Still," Friedlander communicates nonverbally, using the pairing of photographs to enhance their narrative and comedic effect. His preference for books over gallery displays stems from their portability and intimate engagement—“You can pick them up, put them in your pocket, take them where you want to go,” he explained.

"Life Still" comprises photographs arranged in pairs, where one image’s humor is amplified by its counterpart. This method invites readers to explore connections and contrasts, creating a dynamic interplay that brings the humor into sharper relief. For Friedlander, the creative impulse is straightforward: “Having fun” underpins the entirety of his work, with his camera serving as the tool that grants him access to the humor imbued in everyday life.

With a career spanning more than six decades and over 60 published books, Friedlander remains a prominent figure in contemporary photography. His latest project reaffirms his commitment to storytelling through visual wit, reinforcing the enduring impact of his street photography on audiences worldwide.