Meaning: The quote "Everything is a subject. Every subject has a rhythm. To feel it is the raison d'etre. The photograph is a fixed moment of such a raison d'etre, which lives on in itself" by André Kertész encapsulates the essence of photography as an art form. André Kertész was a Hungarian-born photographer known for his profound contributions to the field of photography. His quote delves into the concept of photography as a means of capturing the essence and rhythm of subjects, allowing them to live on in a fixed moment.

In the first part of the quote, Kertész states, "Everything is a subject. Every subject has a rhythm." This highlights the idea that the world is filled with subjects that can be captured through the lens of a camera. It emphasizes the notion that there is inherent beauty and rhythm in all things, and it is the task of the photographer to perceive and capture this rhythm in their work.

The next part of the quote, "To feel it is the raison d'etre," speaks to the importance of the photographer's emotional connection with their subjects. Kertész suggests that the act of feeling and experiencing the rhythm of a subject is the very reason for existence, or "raison d'etre", of the photograph. This implies that the photographer's ability to empathize and connect with their subjects is crucial in creating meaningful and impactful photographs.

The final part of the quote, "The photograph is a fixed moment of such a raison d'etre, which lives on in itself," delves into the essence of photography as a medium for preserving and immortalizing moments. Kertész emphasizes that a photograph is a fixed representation of the photographer's emotional connection and perception of a subject's rhythm. Once captured, the photograph carries the essence of the subject, allowing it to live on indefinitely through the image.

In essence, Kertész's quote sheds light on the profound nature of photography as an art form. It emphasizes the importance of perceiving and capturing the inherent rhythm and beauty in all subjects, and the significance of the photographer's emotional connection with their subjects. Furthermore, the quote underscores the timeless quality of photographs as they preserve and immortalize moments, allowing the subjects' essence to endure through the captured images.

André Kertész's approach to photography and his philosophical insights continue to inspire and influence photographers and artists around the world. His quote serves as a reminder of the profound impact and significance of photography as a medium for expressing and preserving the beauty and rhythm of the world around us.