Here are some pictures taken in Camden town during the summer, here I wanted to focus on the graffiti and street art to give the viewer a sense of the atmosphere and urban surroundings. I found this spot particularly magnetic because of the variety of complimentary colours that are displayed across each of these images which really persuaded me to pursue and explore this area.
Theme: Street/urban
These are experimental photos using techniques such as light trails and high resolution. I found these techniques particularly interesting because I had seen them in other peoples photos in the past but I was new to the method of how you would create these images which encouraged me to pursue this idea.
Regarding the light trails, I used the torch feature on my iPhone to create the different trails whilst the shutter on the camera was left open, enabling me to capture and present this effect.
Regarding the light trails, I used the torch feature on my iPhone to create the different trails whilst the shutter on the camera was left open, enabling me to capture and present this effect.
These were taken in a park where I thought that having a main subject would help me capture the scenery more effectively. The natural surroundings such as the grass and trees helped to enhance the quality of my images because the green in each image adds a dominant theme to the final piece.
I also found that having actual people as my focal point portrays different emotions and expressions to the photo which alters the atmosphere as a whole.
I also found that having actual people as my focal point portrays different emotions and expressions to the photo which alters the atmosphere as a whole.
Last but not least, these were taken in a neon themed shop in Camden Town where I aimed to focus on different angles and perceptions. I particularly favour these images because they successfully express the same emotions that my friends and I were experiencing at the time. With this I feel as if the bright colours and features attract and engage the viewer throughout.
"Sometimes you have to go through the darkness to get to the light"(Friday night lights quote gallery)
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Each of these photos follow an urban/street theme which I hope I can build on throughout this course. They help to imply that my summer did not take place abroad but was more focused on the exploration of what I had access to around me with the influence of new people and friends. I am proud of the things I have learnt over the course of the summer considering I knew little to nothing before hand and only recently took an interest in the photography world.
Each of these photographs are the results of me learning and developing my newly found interest in photography and putting this knowledge into practice, the subject as a whole is particularly thought provoking as it got me thinking of possible locations to shoot and what would fit the themes that I am aiming to achieve. Naturally I was drawn to areas of street art and bold colours which is evident in the final product. |
Gallery visits:
This photo was taken at the British museum during my summer, I particularly enjoyed this piece because of its smooth texture and intricate designs, what also drew me to this piece was it’s captivating shape and structure, the symmetry of the piece expresses a high status and value representing people’s attitude to art at the time of its creation.
The vase looks as if it was made from ceramic materials to help give it such a smooth surface and solid structure. The images displayed around the piece look as if they are telling a story as I can see people dancing and moving, almost like there is a celebration taking place. |
This piece was created by Ibrahim El-Salahi called ‘Reborn Sounds of childhood dreams’, the image was taken from the Tate modern and it particularly interests me because of its chaotic arrangement of shapes and subjects which gives it an engaging demeanour. Also the use of light and dark colours makes certain shapes standout creating a more significant effect of contrast.
Within this piece I can see small bursts of colour such as reds and pinks, which really draws my attention towards different sections of the painting. |
This piece caught my eye because of its magnetic colour scheme and detailed subjects. I also liked how each person in the images is in a different seated position which projects their attitude and status.
The black background on each piece helps to present an element of contrast which singles out the focus of the piece effectively. |
Composition- Lee Bull
Introduction:The aim of this task was to use 'composition' to show how artist Lee Bul presents her work with sculptures. We successfully achieved this through the use of stuffed fabric because this is a key material that Bul used to create her structures. A challenge that I faced personally was deciding where to place the key light in order to allow specific features to be exposed and displayed. I overcame this issue by considering the fact that the structure had to have no distractions in the background to create an isolated atmosphere, this encouraged me to place a directional light at the side of the structure, which allowed me to create themes such as contrast and form.
Theme 1: Contrast- These Lee Bul inspired images each follow the theme of contrast, I wanted to focus on this theme because in some of Bul's work, contrast makes certain features pop and become the focal point of the image. This is often achieved through the use of lighting and in some cases shadows, considering this I have put my own twist on these photographs using the theme of contrast. I took advantage of the black background to exaggerate the difference between light and dark tones throughout my photos.
Theme 2 : distortion - With this theme I decided to focus on how the strings dominate the structure of the stuffed fabric and how the final shape of it can be unpredictable, also the collaboration of different objects and materials help to compliment each other in the style of Lee Bul. The arrangement of what seems to be randomly placed objects actually compliments the theme to create a distorted structure. The fact that there are structures directed from the bottom of the sculpture and almost growing upwards towards the top of the stuffed fabric makes the theme of distortion more
Theme 3: Macro - Within these images my aim was to get up close and personal to the structures and capture specific detail regarding the materials and creases that could be seen on the surface.
Theme 4: Isolation - Unlike the other themes I wanted to focus this group of images on landscapes with the aim of capturing the atmosphere in the style of Bul's work.
Top 2 Lee Bul pieces: |
Lee Bul Biography page- Artist Lee Bul had a difficult child hood as she found herself travelling between homes at an early age due to social conflicts, Bul found relief and satisfaction in drawing and creating during these difficult times which ignited her love for art and began her future success. Bul was born in South Korea in 1964 where the majority of her child hood was overwealmed by prosecution at the mercy of the authoritarian Government so she was used to making her own entertainment.
Bul's love of 'making' pushed her to attend Hongik University in Seoul to study Sculpture in 1984. Here she thrived and developed her skills throughout her time which helped her graduate in 1987. In 1988 Bul grew a strong interest on theatre and using the physical form, she used this passion to present her first public performance, her interest in the body was carried with her for the next decade. Soon after her work saw the surface, Bul began to get recognised by important people within the art world, she began to get invited to prestigious events and win awards for her theatre work. One of her biggest achievements in her early days was when she became the first woman to represent Korea at the Venice Biennale in 1999. From that point onwards Lee Bul's reputation sky rocketed moving her on to have major solo exhibitions in major galleries across the world. Her success has lead her on to live a comfortable life in Seoul where she currently lives. |
I have selected these two images because I feel as if they capture detail and utilise an effective use of angles the most successfully out of the images that I have taken. I particularly enjoy how chiaroscuro is evident throughout each selected image. To add to that the image to the left presents improvement as it is the result of feedback received which encouraged me to re-shoot this subject in order to eliminate the empty space around it. I have narrowed my top three images down to a top two because I felt like I should give the viewer space to consider why I have chosen the images that I did and so that they can see the reasons from my point of view, which are mainly the successful use of contrast in the image on the right and as mentioned earlier the development in to the image presented on the left.
The Formal Elements:
'Formal Elements' is an advanced term used by Artists/Photographers to express a successful 'composition'. Composition meaning how the positioning of the subject and consideration for it's background effects the final piece. The term 'Formal Elements' referrers to the '6 Formal Elements of Design'. These six elements generally consist of Line, Shape, Form and Tone, Pattern, Texture and Colour. These formal elements are often manipulated to create what artists call 'the Principles of Design' which consist of Balance, Contrast, Movement, Emphasis, Proportion and Unity. Here are three examples of the formal elements being put in to practise...
External Formal Element examples:
Lesson Focus-Texture & Pattern:Texture:
Within this photograph, the element of texture is evident as the detail, lines and creases can be seen which gives the viewer an understanding of what the material might feel like. The photograph also uses a narrow depth of field which creates a focal point, capturing the texture of the piece more effectively. I specifically chose wood as my material to shoot because patterns are often created when wood is cut open, exposing a strong sense of texture.
Form & Tone:
Regarding this image the natural lighting is reflected off of the surface of this black pole which helps to give it a curved form in the final product. The lighter tones allow the glossy tint of the pole to be exposed as they highlight how reflective the material used is. The elements of Form and Tone both go hand in hand within the image because the tone and contrast of light creates the form of the pole itself.
Pattern:Within this image my aim was to capture the intricate design of this gutter and to communicate the pattern presented, to the viewer. I took a particular interest in this gutter because the pattern is aligned and uniformed which is created by the gaps in the plastic. Also the use of a narrow depth of field is evident within this piece as the focal point is the section closer to the lens.
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Texture and Pattern in response to Lee Bul:
Regarding the formal elements 'Line' is when the viewer is able to see creases and contour lines which exaggerate the shape and structure of an object, it also illustrates the trail or path left by a line. The Formal Element 'Shape' is an area enclosed by a line collaborating with tone and lighting. The element of 'Form & Tone' is defined by the positioning and shape of the structure/image and how the light helps to form a structure. 'Pattern' regarding the Formal Elements expresses how recurring designs and structures join together to create a 'pattern'. 'Texture' expresses how the material looks as if it feels and what is might feel like when it is touched. The last formal element of the six, 'Colour' injects life in to an image and expresses its surroundings with the use of light.
Within the work of Lee Bul the formal elements heavily dictate the final product and how they come across to the viewer. For example in Buls work with stuffed fabric, the elements of Form and Shape relate to how her use of sculpture is presented.
Within the work of Lee Bul the formal elements heavily dictate the final product and how they come across to the viewer. For example in Buls work with stuffed fabric, the elements of Form and Shape relate to how her use of sculpture is presented.
Macro photography examples/ Aperture priority examples:
Four most successful:
I feel as if these are my four most successful because the macro setting is effectively utilised to capture detail and intricate design, for example threads, holes or creases. When selecting these images, I was thinking about which images draw the spectator to an obvious focal point where macro level detail is visible.
What is Macro?
Macro Photography is when a photo is taken so close up to an object where the viewer can see every small detail and crease in that object, in most cases, Macro Photography is evident when the photo is taken so close to the object that the viewer can not make out what that object is. The aim of Macro Photography is to capture intricate details of the surface of an object or structure, for example threads on a fabric surface would be visible when taking a photograph in Macro.
Aperture:
Aperture in photography referes to how wide the hole is in the lens which lets in light. This is referred to with an f/ number. The smaller the number the larger the hole, therefore letting in more light. The aperture setting on a Nikon is represented by an 'A', and 'AV' on a Canon. You might use the aperture setting on a camera to capture different depths of fields. Aperture priority is often used to isolate a subject and to make the background of that subject blurred or slightly out of focus.
3 New Artists:
Miles Donovan-(Lee Bul use of human form colour scheme)
Artist Miles Donovan produces pop art and Graffiti like pieces which link in with my summer photographs, I particularly took an interest in his use of bright bolder colours which are eye catching and attractive. This links in with Lee Bul's work as the same use of colour to represent limbs and human form is used. |
Ezekixl-(Lee Bul use of central frame an focal points)
Artist Ezekixl uses people as as the focal point of the photograph, this links in with Lee buls idea of the human form and central framing. Ezekixl presents a hipster type atmosphere which also links in with the themes of my summer work and is engaging to me considering how the work is presented to feature different clothing and people. |
Marie Bovo-(Lee Bul use of isolation and space to imply different atmospheres)
Artist Marie Bovo focuses on open spaces and general openings, for example windows or doorways. Urban infrastructure plays a key part in Bovo's work as she tries to capture areas with brickwork and intricate building designs .This gripped my interest because in each of Bovo's photographs the opening was in the same spot each time which allowed the outside of the image to create different atmospheres and mood's. |
Brandon Woelfel - Formal extended image Analysis:Key words/phrases
-Reflection -Neon -Expression -Narrow Focal point -Mood lighting -Glowing Atmosphere -Ripple -Thought Provoking -Contrast -Night time -Eye catching -Lens Flare This photograph is apart of Brandon Woelfel's 'GlassesUSA' display. It is a more simple concept for the viewer as it draws you to different sections of the image using techniques such as reflection and mood lighting. The title states the word 'glasses' which is also the subject of the image its self, in this case the glasses in the image are used as a surface on which the neon lights can reflect off of which relates back to artist Lee Bul's piece when she used fairy lights to reflect off of broken mirrors on the ground to give an extended effect on the atmosphere. The title of the piece gives us as viewer an idea of what the main focal point is supposed to be as 'glasses' are featured throughout the entirety of the collection. The reflection of the neon sign that we can see on the surface of the glasses is curved and distorted, much like Lee Bul's sculpting work when she distorts the human form as well as the fairy light example given earlier. To add to that, the text is reflected backwards which is thought provoking for the viewer as this encourages them to try to make out what is being written on the sign because some letters are disclosed through the reflection. A key technique that is used within this piece may be hidden to the viewer but gives an opaque effect to the image with the intention of filling empty space. This technique that Woelfel successfully creates is achieved by holding reflective (usually glass) prisms up in front of the lens and allowing artificial light to reflect and travel through them, On this particular photograph Woelfel uses this effect on the left side where a rainbow type flare can be seen. The reason that I selected and was drawn to Woelfels work was through the suggestion of a very successful photographer by the name of Peter Mckinnon who's work I have also taken an interest in. The blue neon sign is key to the mood of the piece because the colour blue has connotations of wisdom and knowledge which also relates to the connotations of the glasses used within the piece.The blue colour also presents further connotations of tranquillity and calmness which puts the viewer at ease adding to the photos magnetic presence. If I were to recreate this exact image I would ideally use the Nikon D750 which is a 23.4 mega pixel camera that shoots at 60 frames per video. I would use this camera alongside a 15mm 1.4 lens because this is the exact set up that Woelfel uses to create his art. Next I would have to use a female model and put large framed glasses on them to create the same intellectual effect, what is also key to this recreation is a large neon sign all in blue and I would need to shoot at midday- sundown and set up in centre frame, finally I would use a glass prism to replicate the rainbow flare effect seen in Woelfel's work. Studio Lighting |
Considering the form of the piece, this photograph looks as if it was taken during the day time which is out of character for Woelfel as his photos are usually captured during the night time to enhance the neon effect we see in the final products.
This image by Brandon Woelfel was taken with a female model located centre frame who is wearing a white jumper which is cropped at the shoulders and a ring on her right thumb, the model is also wearing wide frame clear glasses which are the focal point of the photograph, on the right side of the image there is a large glass window with a vibrant neon sign in it displaying some text that is not fully visible, within the reflection of the glasses there is a distorted version of the neon display which is what Woelfel wanted the viewer to focus on first in this image. The model has her right hand up to the side of the glasses as if she is adjusting them which also helps to guide the viewers attention to the distorted reflection. The subject of the piece could be considered framed because a range of techniques are being used around them to intensify the photo for example, a narrow depth of field is being presented on the large blue neon sign to make it fade off in to the background the further away it gets from the front of the image, this same technique is being used on the model herself with the intention of focusing the viewers attention on the subject or focal point. Woelfel's work inspires me personally because I have already experimented with this type of photography and his work encourages me to explore further and try out some of his methods and techniques in order for my skills to develop and grow. His use of editing draws me in more to the idea of editing myself more so than any other artist of photographer that I have encountered before, purely because of the clean and cinematic finishes that he displays consistently throughout his photography career. |
This first studio lighting technique is 'Side Lighting' where the aim of the photo was to position the key light at one side of the subject to achieve a visible harsh line along the middle of the face, this will suggest a theme of contrast and present Gemini characteristics regarding it's bipolar nature. I had my subject face different directions and look at different objects around the room so that I could create different effects. An example of this is the first image of the three where the subject is looking in to the distance to their left, this implies that the light side of their face is maybe representing an open door or maybe even heaven as they are drawn to it and away from the dark shadowed side. The image in the centre was made to appear a lot more central as I had the subject look in to the centre of the lens to suggest a split atmosphere of both good and evil represented by the contrast of light and dark tones.
The technique used here is 'Rembrandt' lighting which is when the directional light is at a higher position on the subject and pointing down on the face to create a small triangle of light underneath the eye. Regarding the first two images that I took, I had my subject look in different directions without turning their head so that I was able to move and capture different angles of the subject. Some of this movement was done to make the triangle of light more visible, emphasising the Rembrandt technique that was used. Personally I found this the most challenging studio lighting technique to achieve because I previously was unsure of the positioning of the key/directional light at the time of this shoot.
This next lighting technique that we used was called 'Butterfly lighting' which is when the key light is located directly above the subject and the face is pointed upwards, this technique is called this because when the subjects face is pointed upwards, the silhouette of a butterfly is visible under the nose. I found that with this technique there was little light to work with as it was focused on the subject entirely. But although this was a minor obstacle I was able to oversee it because the effect created was very successful and thought provoking. This effect was that the subjects face appeared as if it was emerging from the darkness as all the light is focused on the subjects face creating a main focal point.
Response to Myra Greene:
Regarding this task, my initial intentions were to use techniques from artist Myra Greene to capture a particular focal point, for example nose, skin, eye lashes... Within these images, I used the macro setting to be able to notice intricate skin patterns and designs. Through this I wanted to develop my ability in Macro photography by becoming familiar with the macro setting and making judgements regarding focus and how I intend to show that through the use of Macro. This work is entirely inspired by artist Myra Greene, who specialises in human exposure and self portraits, I took similar features of the face to Myra Greene and included these same features when shooting my own subject as I knew beforehand that they were successful features to highlight due to Greens outcomes of work.
Top 3:
Most successful Myra Greene inspired photograph:
I feel as if this was my most successful Myra Greene inspired image because it accurately uses the same techniques of a Narrow depth of field and it advertises similar features used within Greene's work. The image also successfully captures many small details of the texture and form of the skin. The focal point which is the subjects moustache, is made clear to the viewer through the use of aperture (a narrow depth of field).
Myra Greene Artist Analysis:
Regarding my initial reaction to this piece, I was drawn to how the outline of the lips are greatly exaggerated and highlighted with the use of harsh lighting, this lighting technique allowed my attention to ease into the lines and creases of the lips which are exposed showing Greene's aims of vulnerability and realism. Each of Myra Greene's photographs are presented in high contrast black and white because she began her career photographing white people and aiming to capture darker features within them, she did this because she wanted to emphasise that we as human beings are all the same, so therefore this was presented through black and white editing to make images appear in similar colours.
The images were taken in these specific positions and poses because Greene related her work to the slavery era and how livestock were sold and advertised, this is why the image exposing the subjects teeth is taken so close up and taken so unflatteringly. In my opinion, I feel as if these photographs explore different interpretations and attitudes towards slavery and how it is presented, the intention was not to express something ugly but to imply the ugliness of the past and also exploring themes of intrusion. Myra Greene often hides and conceals details from the viewer because she is advertising specific facial features through the use of studio/artificial lighting creating intensely exposed portraits. Sections of the image are blurred out so that other features can be emphasised through this, in order to achieve this effect Greene uses a narrow depth of field through the use of Aperture as seen in the majority of her images. Some may interpret Greene's images to exert a sinister atmosphere, this may be because her images aim to portray the slave trade and that time period, this was a negative and even sinister time in history which is successfully translated through this example. Regarding this image Myra Greene has positioned her viewpoint very central to communicate a harsh, intense directional light emphasising the focal points. Greene use artificial lighting within her photographs and within this particular image she uses the key light to expose the detail of the facial feature being advertised, the photographer uses artificial lighting as opposed to natural lighting because a directional light is needed to have more control over how the focal point is presented where as natural light is in most cases more difficult to control and direct. Myra Greene aims to expose to the viewer her black culture and background which is important when considering the theme of form, which is key throughout her work. Another theme to be explored throughout Myra Greene's work is exposure, as the subjects face is captured not with the aim of glamour but with the aim of raw exposure to advertise the subject. A result of this is contrast between light and dark tones through the use of directional light. |
Myra Greene inspired photo-shoot :
Myra Greene inspired edits & response
Introduction: Going in to this task, my aim was to explore the variety of features offered on photoshop and to identify how photographer Myra Greene edits her photos. This consisted of using a black and white mask layer which was inspired by the work of Myra Greene as she uses this to conceal the barrier between race in her photographs. I also took advantage of the dodge and burn tools which allowed me to highlight or add shade to dark, mid and light tones within my images. My intentions throughout this task were to further explore how Greene grips the viewers attention to different focal points of the image. This was soon revealed as I found that Greene uses tonal range to highlight specific focal points. Similarly I used the dodge and burn tools on photoshop to exaggerate different tones. Many of these techniques used, relate strongly back to Myra Greene, specifically the black and white mask layer and the enhancing of certain colours and textures which correlate with Myra Greene's themes. Although I was able to isolate specific facial features, I found it difficult to convey the theme of the 'Slave trade' which Greene aims to focus on, regarding some of her most successful pieces.
Response to chosen Artist (Brandon Woelfel):
Introduction: When directing this shoot, my intentions were to utilise the techniques of Woelfel's photography and alter the depth of field to create an obvious focal point. These specific images predominantly incorporate a narrow depth of field which helps to draw the viewers attention, with the use of the formal element 'line' also. The task was to take a series of photographs that demonstrate my best strengths whilst being influenced by the work of Brandon Woelfel with his use of composition (central framing) and lighting. I used the technique of lighting to create different atmospheres which is closely related to Woelfel, the bold presence of neon lighting helps to exclaim and enhance the form and structure of the images focal point. I also used the aperture setting on my camera to create enhanced clarity of focal features which was greatly influenced by Woelfel's work I used a small f/ number to blur specific sections of the image creating a larger hole in the lens.
Chosen artist edited response:
Most successful edit:
I feel as if this edited photograph is my most successful regarding the techniques and style of Brandon Woelfel. I have used blurred mask layers to to create the same effect of glass prisms which Woelfel uses to reflect and refract natural light. The vibrant colour used around the outside of the image creates the effect of when Woelfel holds objects close to the lens creating a blurred tint in key areas, this is successful because it uses techniques that are key throughout Woelfel's work.
I have used the hue saturation tool on photoshop to make colours and flayers seem more natural as the majority of Woelfel's work takes place within natural settings.
I have used the hue saturation tool on photoshop to make colours and flayers seem more natural as the majority of Woelfel's work takes place within natural settings.
Formal elements: Line & Shape
The formal element of line is key when drawing your viewer to a focal point and creating the structure and shape of a subject. In close relation with this, the element of shape also plays a significant role when forming a structure as 'line' often leads to/creates shape. As seen in the most popular examples of where 'line' is evident, the element its self acts as a contour or a skeleton which forms a subject like a building or a staircase for example. Line being the path created from a moving point often guides the viewer through an image, allowing them to notice different features in an intended order. Line is key when considering the framing of an image as the focal point of that image is typically central, significant lines within an image help to make the outcome seem more uniformed and structured. For example when there is a central or diagonal dominant line, that line structures the intentions of the images proximity.
Intro: This task which was dictated by the formal elements of 'line', 'shape' and how they direct and draw the viewers attention to the images focal point. The task was to go out and capture images where the formal element of line is evident, and to focus on natural and man made architecture to achieve this. The following images aim to communicate consideration for line and how it directs the viewer through the image. Throughout this task I kept my eyes peeled for structures which conveyed symmetry and ninety degree angles because through this, line and direction became significantly more clear to the viewer. The element of line was a key influence in creating 'shape' which is also a key formal element with which we explored throughout this task also. Line cooperates to create the element of shape by guiding the viewers eye across a path of the subject. Shadow lines as well as architectural lines help to form shape and structure as they express tonal range to form a three dimensional subject.
Formal element of Line edited enlargements:
Most successful edit:
I feel as if this was my strongest and most successful edit because the angle at which I shot at accurately captures the theme of 'line and shape' as it guides the viewers attention to the left side of the image as a focal point. The edited photograph also features the techniques of Simon Phipps as the use of black and white mask layers, the rule of thirds and the dodge tool is evident.
Also I think that this is my most successful edited photograph because the use of a narrow depth of field on the aperture camera setting is used effectively to create an initial focal point for the viewer in the centre of the image. We can see this due to the visible creases in the material of the black ledge which is contrasted with the end of that line not being in focus. |
Photo walk around Local area: Element of line
Introduction: When entering this task, my aim was to take key ideas from the exploration of 'line' and apply those observations to capture images around my local area. I looked for subjects that presented symmetry and ninety degree angles to make my findings appear more uniformed. The element of line was key throughout this task because all the images captured, present influences from the element of line, for example drawing the viewer and guiding them through the subject to form 'shape'. The element of shape was also relevant when taking these photographs because the shape often created symmetry which is magnetic to viewers.
Photo walk edited enlargements:
Most successful edit:
I feel as if this is my most successful edit because the element of line is successfully presented and it effectively guides the viewers attention through the image. The use of the rule of thirds is effective particularly regarding this image because different focal points have been placed in to central and in obvious proximity.
Also I feel as if this edit is my most successful because the techniques used are similar to what photographer Simon Phipps uses within his pieces, for example the use of black and white mask layers and the dodge tool to highlight sections of the image. |
Layered Landscapes
Intro: Layered landscapes are a perception of man made and natural structures which are manipulated to come together and build an image which incorporates techniques like layering and long exposure shots. Layered Landscapes are often set to capture architecture and dense city areas which help to communicate a deeper reality to the viewer regarding detail of architecture. The techniques that are used allow more than one image to be in view when a single landscape is being shown, for example taking multiple images and layering them helps to increase the density on city landscapes. These images are simply breaking space down into foreground, middle ground and distance. Layered landscapes are typically two or more images taken at the same or similar angles in order to achieve the theme of the passing of time, which is often portrayed at various distances and levels.
Two artists inspired by line & shape:
Michael Wesely: Wesely is a German art photographer who is commonly known for his outstanding pictures of cities and buildings. Wesley is based in Berlin, where he both lives and works. Michael Wesely uses a layering technique within his photos which compliment his long exposure themed work, he will use a pinhole camera to capture the amazing lapses seen in his work, this will include leaving the camera set up on a tripod either pointing out of a window or on top of a building and leaving the shutter open for a number of years. This technique helps Wesley achieve this aesthetic of passing time which is aided by black and white mask layers.
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Georges Rousse: Rousse is an artist and photographer from France who is most popular for his photos of painted shapes with bright colours in desolate and empty places. He does this by painting shapes and sections of a space with harsh outlines, often at different levels and distances to make the viewer more intrigued and engaged. This technique used by Rousse creates an obvious focal point and deception of scenery due to its thought provoking appearance. I was drawn to Rousses work because of the bright colours that are used and the iconic and eye catching features that are displayed throughout his work. In this example the fact that each of the stairs are coloured differently makes me look at the stair case as a focal point first.
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Michael Wesley:
Key words:
-Long exposure -Mask layer -Pinhole -shutter -lapse -city -time -Mysterious Michael Wesely is a German Photographer who is famous for urban and city photography and capturing intricate architectural designs. Wesley used pinhole cameras to capture how a city lives and moves overtime, this will be presented through a lapse of the city also with the use of layering and mask layers on Photoshop. What drew me to Wesely's work was how he uses certain techniques to portray the passing of time, this made me appreciate the time taken to achieve these shots. Wesely dominantly uses a pinhole camera which will typically be set up on top of a building or pointed outside a window looking down at a city, which gives the viewer a much larger atmosphere to become immersed into. The camera that is being used will often be in the same position for twenty plus years in order to produce this time lapse aesthetic. Michael Wesely's approach to his photography is inspired by the antithesis of Henri Cartier-Bresson's 'decisive moment' which presents the idea that Wesely's work deconstructs and rearranges the typical dominant voyeurism that dictates photography by 'abandoning representation'. His use of long exposure and shutter speed depicts an alternative view of the natural rules within photography. Wesely usually has curved lines that appear in the sky's of his images and he has concluded that they are from the sun moving north south and back over one year, this presents the idea of the passing of time as the movement of the sun suggests the movement between time. Lens flayers may also appear within Wesley's work which may imply a more dramatic atmosphere complimenting the theme of the passing of time. Wesely notes that his images 'hide a lot and show little', this encourages the viewer to become more engaged with the piece and more attentive to hidden detail. |
We are unable to see this as viewers but the pedestrians walking across the pavement are reduced to blurs alongside vehicles. Wesely's intention when he did this was to create a sense of mystery to further intrigue the spectator and to make the setting seem more empty and desolate which presents irony as his photographs typically take place within dense city areas. Regarding his work within cities, Wesely said in 1963 "I am inviting the viewer to imagine... the birth of a new building". This idea is evident through Wesely's use of layering and reduction of the opacity which introduces new structures and buildings.
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Michael Wesely inspired gallery:
Intro: With this task, my aim was to consider Wesely's use of angles and setting to produce images that correlate with his style of photography. I wanted to achieve this because my interest with Wesely's work grew from my work with urban and street themes which is evident at the top of this website. Since Wesley took his pictures in a city environment, I felt as if I must revisit my summer photography and link Wesely's work with my own style of photography, which was my mind set going in to this task. The initial task was to go out and take photos inspired by your chosen photographer which in my case was Michael Wesely, in this area I think I was successful because my shoot resembles key elements of Wesley's work and techniques, and it presents a relevant train of thought when I was capturing these photos.
Wesely inspired edits:
Most successful edit:
I feel as if this is my most successful edit because the quality of both images are very clear and bold which helps each image to complement the other. Also the layering techniques that were used by Wesely are used effectively as it gives off the same theme of the passing of time. The dodge and burn tools on photo shop were used successfully in my opinion because the lights highlight certain sections of the image, which guides the viewer to different focal points.
Also I feel as if this edit was my most successful because the text on the left side of the image make the layered image more visible and bold which compliments both layers. This successfully links to the photographer because the same black and white mask layer is being used along side the altered opacity of layers. |