Meaning: Ken Burns, a renowned American filmmaker, has made a significant impact on the documentary genre with his unique approach to storytelling through the use of photographs. The quote, "I treat the photograph as a work of great complexity in which you can find drama. Add to that a careful composition of landscapes, live photography, the right music and interviews with people, and it becomes a style," captures the essence of Burns' approach to documentary filmmaking.

When Burns refers to treating the photograph as a work of great complexity, he highlights the depth and layers of storytelling that can be extracted from a single image. Rather than simply presenting a photograph as a static visual, he sees it as a dynamic and rich source of narrative potential. This approach aligns with his signature documentary style, known for its meticulous attention to detail and comprehensive exploration of historical events and figures.

The inclusion of drama in the photograph suggests that Burns seeks to uncover the underlying narratives and emotions within the images he utilizes. Whether capturing moments of conflict, joy, sorrow, or resilience, he understands the power of visual storytelling in evoking a sense of drama that resonates with audiences.

Furthermore, by emphasizing the careful composition of landscapes, live photography, the right music, and interviews with people, Burns underscores the multi-faceted nature of his documentary style. His deliberate curation of visuals, music, and personal accounts demonstrates his commitment to creating a rich and immersive viewing experience for his audience.

The incorporation of landscapes into his work speaks to Burns' recognition of the environment as a character in its own right, shaping and influencing the events and stories being told. Through his careful composition of landscapes, he adds depth and context to the narratives, grounding them in a specific sense of place and time.

Live photography, another element highlighted by Burns, suggests a dynamic and immediate approach to capturing moments as they unfold. This technique lends an authenticity and vibrancy to his documentaries, allowing viewers to feel intimately connected to the events being depicted.

In addition, the right music plays a crucial role in Burns' documentaries, serving as a powerful emotional and narrative tool. The careful selection and integration of music help set the tone, evoke specific moods, and underscore the thematic elements of the stories being told.

Moreover, Burns' emphasis on interviews with people reflects his commitment to incorporating personal perspectives and firsthand accounts into his documentaries. By giving voice to individuals who have lived through the events being explored, he enriches the storytelling with intimate insights and human experiences.

Collectively, these elements coalesce to form what Burns describes as a style. This style is characterized by its immersive and multi-sensory approach to storytelling, drawing viewers into the historical narratives and connecting them on a deeply emotional and intellectual level.

Ken Burns' quote encapsulates his profound appreciation for the art of visual storytelling and his dedication to crafting documentaries that transcend mere historical accounts, instead immersing audiences in the drama, emotion, and complexity of the human experience. His approach has left an indelible mark on the documentary genre, inspiring countless filmmakers to embrace the power of photographs as dynamic and evocative storytelling tools.