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Daniel Sackheim's Favorite Photobooks

Daniel Sackheim, acclaimed for his directorial work on groundbreaking series like Game of Thrones and The Walking Dead, finds inspiration beyond the realm of the moving image in the world of fine art photography. Here are some of his favorite photography books, each offering unique insights and artistic perspectives that fuel his personal photography practice which has seen him exhibit at Leica Gallery Los Angeles, Iconic Images Gallery London amongst many others .

Photographer: Fan Ho

Publisher: Modernbook Editions, 2017

Overview: This book captures the essence of mid-20th-century Hong Kong through striking black-and-white images. Fan Ho’s work is marked by its beautiful composition and emotional depth, showcasing the vibrancy and melancholy of a city in transition.

Photographer: Todd Hido

Publisher: Aperture, 2016

Overview: Hido's intimate landscapes and interiors evoke feelings of isolation and connection. His mastery of light and color creates a dreamlike quality that draws the viewer into moments of quiet reflection.

Photographer: Trent Parke

Publisher: Hot Chilli Press, 1999

Overview: In "Dream/Life," Parke blends surrealism with candid storytelling, capturing the essence of Australian life. His striking imagery, filled with vibrant colors and ethereal moments, invites viewers into a world that feels both familiar and otherworldly.

Photographer: Sebastião Salgado

Publisher: Taschen, 2016

Overview: Salgado’s poignant documentation of the aftermath of the Gulf War is both powerful and heartbreaking. Through stark black-and-white photographs, he brings to light the human cost of conflict, evoking empathy and awareness.

Photographer: Gregory Crewdson

Publisher: Abrams, 2008

Overview: Crewdson’s meticulously staged photographs of suburban America blur the lines between reality and fantasy. Each image is a narrative in itself, inviting viewers to uncover the stories hidden within the frames. This cinematic approach resonates with Sackheim's filmmaking, where every shot is crafted to tell a deeper story.

Photographer: Ernst Haas

Publisher: Prestel, 2020

Overview: Haas’s vibrant exploration of New York City in the 1950s and 60s captures the pulse of urban life in stunning color. His innovative approach to photography celebrates the energy and diversity of the city, offering a fresh perspective.