Meaning: This quote by Ernst Haas encapsulates the essence of his approach to photography and the deep connection he felt with the city of Paris. Haas, a prominent photographer known for his innovative use of color in photography, expressed his desire to align his emotions and moods with the vibrant and ever-changing atmosphere of Paris. In this quote, he emphasizes his aspiration to capture the beauty that he perceived around him and to translate it into visual art through his photographs.

Ernst Haas was a pioneer in the field of color photography, and his work often focused on capturing the essence of a moment and the emotions it evoked. His unique approach to photography involved a deep sensitivity to the nuances of light, color, and composition, which enabled him to create images that were not only visually stunning but also deeply evocative.

When Haas speaks of connecting his moods with those of Paris, he is expressing a profound desire to immerse himself in the energy and spirit of the city. Paris, with its rich cultural heritage, artistic ambiance, and dynamic urban landscape, provided the perfect canvas for Haas to explore and express his artistic vision. By seeking to align his moods with those of Paris, Haas aimed to create a symbiotic relationship between his internal emotional state and the external beauty and dynamism of the city.

The notion of "beauty paints" in Haas's quote alludes to the transformative power of beauty and its ability to inspire and uplift the human spirit. For Haas, beauty was not merely a visual phenomenon but a force that had the capacity to evoke deep emotional responses and elicit a sense of wonder and awe. In his pursuit of capturing the essence of Paris, Haas sought to harness this power of beauty and translate it into his photographic compositions.

The phrase "and when it painted most, I shot" reveals Haas's keen awareness of the ephemeral nature of beauty and the transient moments of visual splendor that he sought to capture. His use of the word "painted" suggests a dynamic and ever-changing process, implying that beauty is not static but rather a fluid and evolving phenomenon. Haas's decision to "shoot" at the peak of this painting process signifies his acute sensitivity to the fleeting nature of these moments and his determination to encapsulate them in his photographs.

Ernst Haas's quote not only provides insight into his artistic philosophy but also offers a glimpse into the deep emotional and sensory connection he experienced with the city of Paris. Through his words, we gain an understanding of his profound reverence for the beauty and vitality of his surroundings and his unwavering commitment to capturing these elements through the lens of his camera.

In summary, Ernst Haas's quote encapsulates his deep emotional and artistic connection with the city of Paris and his profound desire to align his moods with the dynamic and ever-changing beauty of the urban landscape. His words serve as a testament to his unique approach to photography, which was driven by a deep sensitivity to the transformative power of beauty and an unwavering commitment to capturing the essence of fleeting moments in time.