Stanley Greene, an American photojournalist and photographer, was born on January 14, 1949, in Brooklyn, New York. He grew up in a creative environment with both his parents being actors. His father was a part of the Harlem Renaissance movement, which exposed him to the arts from a young age.
Greene's passion for photography began when he received his first camera from his parents at the age of 11. Initially, he pursued a career as a painter but later decided to explore photography further. He attended the School of Visual Arts in New York and the San Francisco Art Institute, where he honed his craft as a photographer. In 1989, Greene transitioned into photojournalism after capturing an iconic shot of the Berlin Wall.
One of Greene's most renowned works is his coverage of the conflict in Chechnya in 1994, which was later compiled into the book "Open Wound." This project showcased his ability to capture the raw emotions and realities of war through his lens. He also documented major world events such as the genocide in Rwanda in 1994 and the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and the Gulf Coast in 2005.
In 2007, Greene co-founded the NOOR Agency, a platform that supported emerging photographers and photojournalists in sharing their work with the world. His role in establishing this agency helped launch the careers of several talented individuals, further solidifying his influence in the photography industry.
While on assignment for Agence Vu in October 1993, Greene found himself in a life-threatening situation. He was trapped and nearly killed while photographing the White House in Moscow during the standoff between President Boris Yeltsin and the parliament. Despite the dangers he faced, Greene continued to document crucial moments with bravery and dedication.
Throughout his career, Stanley Greene made a lasting impact on the field of photography through his powerful storytelling and commitment to capturing truth. His work serves as a testament to the importance of bearing witness to history and speaking out against injustice. Greene's contributions have inspired a new generation of photographers to follow in his footsteps and continue the tradition of documenting the world's complexities.