Emmanuel Sougez

Emmanuel Sougez (1889–1972) was a French photographer renowned for his mastery of classic photographic techniques and his dedication to the purity of the medium. As a leading figure in 20th-century European photography, Sougez championed the ideals of straight photography, emphasizing sharp detail, rich tonal contrast, and meticulous composition. His striking portraits, still lifes, and architectural studies reflect a refined sensitivity to light and form. In 1946, he co-founded the Group of XV, a collective dedicated to promoting photography as a fine art. Through his editorial work for L’Illustration and numerous exhibitions, Sougez's contributions solidified his legacy as a pioneering force in modern French photography.