The contribution of French photo agencies to the field of photojournalism and documentary photography should not be underestimated. One might say that the father of French photojournalism was Henri Cartier-Bresson. His argument that a photo should be taken at the “decisive moment” still holds true. But there have also been major contributions made by Magnum, Gamma-Liason and Sipa photo agencies to illustrate this point that the French have been pioneers in photojournalism. These agencies have set the standard for others to follow including DPI.

The collection of images in this slideshow are DPI’s homage to the French influence as they represent life in France during various periods.