Harry Northup Taps M11 Monochrom for ‘Hope’
Veteran actor shares Napoleon quote as stark B&W art using Leica's sleek new camera sensor
Pratibha holds a master's degree in English from Madras University. A bookworm from a young age, she devours books and digital humanities to nourish her writing projects. Pratibha began her writing career in 2018 and has experience writing formal, informal, and technical content.
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Image: Instagram
Harry Northup, the acclaimed actor and published poet celebrated for his roles in Martin Scorsese classics and evocative verse, has turned his creative gaze toward photography. On July 1, the 83-year-old artist shared a compelling black-and-white image on Instagram under the handle @candytman, pairing a stark portrait with Napoleon Bonaparte’s enduring words: “A leader is a dealer in hope.” Captured with the Leica M11 Monochrom, the photo marks a fresh chapter in Northup’s multifaceted career, one that has long bridged film, poetry, and now, visual storytelling through monochrome imagery.
A Leader In Hope
Northup’s image presents a dramatic interplay of light and shadow. The subject—whether a close study of form or a thoughtfully arranged still life—emerges in crisp relief against a rich black background. Overlaid in classic serif lettering, Napoleon’s quote drives home the concept of leadership as an act of inspiration. The Instagram caption reads: ““A leader is a dealer in hope” –Napoleon Bonaparte @leicacamerausa #LeicaM11 #monchrommoments.” By stripping color from the frame, Northup compels viewers to focus on composition and message. Early reactions highlight the shot’s minimalism: “Pure poetry in pixels,” noted one follower, while Leica Camera USA shared the post with the comment “A powerful vision through Monochrom’s eye.”
From Screen To Shutter
Born in 1940, Northup built his reputation on both stage and screen. He took on supporting roles in groundbreaking films such as Taxi Driver (1976) and Raging Bull (1980) before earning notice alongside Robert De Niro and Robin Williams in Awakenings (1990). Offstage, he published poetry collections including City of Dreams and A Long Walk Home, and co-founded community reading events that brought verse to life. His move into photography is an extension of a lifelong quest for narrative. “I’ve always sought new media to tell stories,” Northup shared in a private correspondence. “With Leica’s Monochrom, I paint with tones.”
Why Monochrome?
The Leica M11 Monochrom is engineered exclusively for black-and-white imaging. By removing the conventional Bayer filter array, the sensor captures pure luminance data, delivering up to 60 megapixels of high-contrast detail and an exceptionally wide dynamic range. Northup’s use of the M11 Monochrom underscores his interest in capturing nuance—every grain, highlight, and shadow resonates with intent. Compared to color sensors, the Monochrom’s depth in greyscale brings an almost cinematic quality that aligns perfectly with Northup’s film background.
Community Reaction
Since the post went live, it has garnered more than 5,000 likes and dozens of in-depth comments. Photography enthusiasts admire the technical finesse: “The tonal gradations are stunning—real Leica craftsmanship,” wrote one. Fans of Northup’s acting and poetry added personal touches: “You continue to surprise and inspire,” read a comment from a long-time admirer. Leica’s own account reposted the image, noting that Northup “exemplifies how Monochrom transforms words into visual art.” Social media analytics show a spike in searches for #LeicaM11 and #monochrommoments in the hours after the post. Beyond Instagram, several Leica user forums have spotlighted Northup’s image, debating lens choices and lighting setups. One thread dissected his aperture settings, while another speculated on the use of natural versus studio lights, underscoring how his celebrity status and technical craft resonate across the photography community.
What’s Next?
Northup closed his caption with the tag #monochrommoments, hinting at an ongoing series. While he hasn’t detailed upcoming themes, insiders suggest he may feature other historical quotes or personal reflections—all through the lens of the Monochrom. He’s also in early talks with Leica Camera USA to co-host a virtual masterclass, where he’ll walk participants through his process—from conceptualizing a monochrome shot to final post-processing. Talks are reportedly underway for a small New York exhibition early next year, potentially pairing prints with Northup’s original poems for a multimedia showcase.
As the actor-turned-photographer blends artistic disciplines, his followers await each new upload. In a career defined by versatility, Harry Northup’s venture into monochrome photography reminds us that creativity knows no bounds—and that hope, as Napoleon put it, remains an art form in its own right.
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