TCF Ep. 660 - Mike Giannattasio - Leica USA

Mike Giannattasio is the current President of Leica Camera USA, and we sat down with him to discuss the history, philosophy, and values that have allowed Leica to remain one of the most respected names in photography for more than a century. Rather than focusing on the latest camera releases, our conversation explores the company's enduring commitment to craftsmanship, design, and a way of seeing that has inspired generations of photographers. A significant part of our discussion centers on Leica's network of galleries, which have evolved into much more than exhibition spaces or retail showrooms. Through exhibitions, artist talks, workshops, and community events, Leica Galleries have become creative hubs that bring photographers together around a shared appreciation for the medium. We talk about the importance of fostering these communities, the role they play in Leica's identity, and the recent opening of Leica Gallery Chicago, the newest addition to Leica's growing gallery system. Resources Mike Giannattasio https://leica-camera.com Henri-Cartier Bresson https://www.henricartierbresson.org/en/ Leica Gallery Chicago https://leica-camera.com/en-US/stores-dealers/leica-gallery-chicago Altadena Photographers https://www.altadenaphotographers.org/ Workshops & Upcoming Education with Ibarionex Perello X-Pedition Hanoi A destination workshop centered on street photography, culture, and daily life in Hanoi, Vietnam. https://www.f8photographicworkshops.com/x-pedition-hanoi Websites The Candid Frame Support Page https://www.ibarionex.net/support Sponsors Charcoal Book Club https://charcoalbookclub.com Frames Magazine https://readframes.com Education Resources Momenta Photographic Workshops https://momentaworkshops.com/workshops/ Candid Frame Resources The Candid Frame Newsletter & Substack Blog http://ibarionex.substack.com/welcome Support the work at The Candid Frame: https://www.ibarionex.net/support You can follow Ibarionex on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ibarionex/