There are some people who become best friends with everyone they photograph. There are people that I really like and admire and respect, but in a way I think it's better to keep a distance. I think you get better pictures of people that you don't know very well.

The quote "There are some people who become best friends with everyone they photograph. There are people that I really like and admire and respect, but in a way I think it's better to keep a distance. I think you get better pictures of people that you don't know very well." by Mary Ellen Mark speaks to the complex relationship between a photographer and their subjects. Mark, a renowned documentary photographer, suggests that while personal connection can be valuable, maintaining a certain level of distance can lead to more authentic and powerful photographs. By not being too familiar with her subjects, she feels she can capture more genuine moments and avoid the influence of personal bias or intimacy in her work.

Mark’s perspective highlights the idea that objectivity and distance can enhance a photographer’s ability to reveal deeper truths about the subject, especially in the context of documentary photography, where the goal is often to portray life in an unfiltered and raw way. She contrasts this approach with photographers who may form deep friendships with their subjects, suggesting that this closeness can sometimes cloud the ability to truly see or document the person as they are. Mark's approach is rooted in the belief that detachment allows her to capture the essence of the subject without the influence of emotional connection.

The origin of this quote lies in Mark’s extensive career as a photojournalist and documentary photographer, where she traveled the world capturing poignant and often difficult moments. Known for her work on issues such as homelessness and social outcasts, Mark believed that the photographer’s role is to observe and document, rather than to engage emotionally or personally with the subject. Her works, such as those in the book "Streetwise," are noted for their intimacy and depth, capturing moments of raw human experience.

Ultimately, the quote reflects Mark’s belief in the importance of detachment in creating impactful images. By maintaining a certain distance, she could maintain her role as an observer, allowing the photograph to speak for itself without the influence of personal relationships. This philosophy is central to much of documentary photography, where the goal is to capture the truth of a moment or subject without interference from the photographer’s emotions or biases.