Summer Initial Shoots

fig 1                                                                 fig 2

fig 3                                                                 fig 4

fig 5                                                                 fig 6

My summer shoots were inspired by abstract artists such as Saul Leiter American photographer, painter specializes in colour and offering a unique approach, Francis Bruguiere abstract painter sculptor, and Maurizio Anzeri Italian artist creates abstract art using vintage photographs and embroidery. Shoots involve using reflective objects and mirrors (warping gives a unique effect), experimenting with bending light, framing the subject, attaching meaning to the images. for example with fig 3 the depth of field is out of focus making the subject less visible which conflicts with the idea of glasses enhancing our vision. This shot in particular is in a well lit environment bringing out the colours to create a relaxed atmosphere. The close up also helps to establish a connection between the viewer and the model.

Contact Sheet

Post Production

This is another interesting shot that I found to be the most successful. The image makes it appear that it’s taken from the subjects point of view giving a real personal connection. The mirror is used to reflect the models face which makes the viewer think about how they relate to the subject. Similarly, the depth of field is focused on the mirror giving greater detail to the persons face which draws the audiences attention. I wanted to further improve this image in post production because I think there are a few things that I can tweak.

On Adobe Bridge I opened the image in Camera RAW and wanted to increase the contrast to create some more depth. I also thought that the colours could stand out more so I decided to increase the vibrancy and saturation. This makes it more lively and more interesting to look at.

Similarly, I wanted to tone down the light to make other features stand out without altering the image too much. Reducing the lights and darks helped to achieve this and makes the picture less washed out. This also makes it clearer to see allowing the viewer pay more attention to detail.

Here’s the final result:

I feel that this was a great first step into my project exploring multiple uses of reflective objects and how to photograph them with a subject. Also trying out digital photography in a different environment and learning how the camera works. Next, I hope to explore more into a clearer theme to attach with my work so that my work has a message which people can understand.