William Klein is an American-born French photographer (b. 1928) and filmmaker noted for his ironic approach to both media and his extensive use of unusual photographic techniques in the context of photojournalism and fashion photography. He used telephoto lenses to shoot fashion before it became standard, he cranked his enlarger’s focusing knob back and forth to create a weird zoom look, he shot high fashion on the streets without permits and, most of all he always stayed rebellious, innovative and, well… different.
He has lived in Paris since the 1960s and is still creating new work which is widely exhibited.
Klein was a pioneer not only in fashion photography but in independent filmmaking and street photography and now, in his fusion of painting and photography.
For an excellent insight into the great Klein, view the full length (58:43) video below. For a gallery of his still photography check out the link to the right under Great Photographers.