Project 2 explores the use of light and shadows and is influenced by the photographer Trent Parke whose work is recommended as a starting point.
I have always been fascinated by shadows and the creative use of natural light in photography. The quote, ‘I am forever chasing light. Light turns the ordinary into the magical’ (Parke, n.d.) is demonstrated in one of Parke’s techniques which is to shoot at a time of day that provides long shadows and strong sunlight, controlling the exposure to creates dark shadows and high contrast.
His use of strong shadow, removing detail, often simplifies the scene, focussing the viewer’s attention on the main object of the image. The effect can also be surreal.
Here is an example of a recent photo taken this Autumn one late afternoon. For one minute, there was brilliant sunshine and long shadows from the trees
Inspired Parke’s use of monochrome the same image is transformed using Lightroom into a more dramatic and moody scene
Working on this project in January in the UK provided a particular challenge with finding the right light. However, a burst of late afternoon sunshine provided an opportunity to experiment in the local park.
Though these images make use of shadows, I am still aiming for something with more contrast. so this will be an ongoing project. A city centre with tall buildings casting long shadows will offer another opportunity to explore this approach.
The project has made met has made me consider different ways of using light to create a dramatic and atmospheric image. Other learning points include
- Research is important to find the right location and time of day
- Take lots of images
- Be patient, wait for the right moment
- Use the spot meter for control, either exposing for shadow or highlights depending on the desired effect
- Black and white images can be more dramatic than colour
References
Parke, T. (n.d.) Trent Parke Profile [online]. Magnum Photos Website. Available from: https://pro.magnumphotos.com/C.aspx?VP3=CMS3&VF=MAGO31_9_VForm&ERID=24KL534BCYh[Accessed 1 January 2019]
Karen Gourlay: Foundations in Photography 