“Often people ask what I’m photographing, which is a hard question to answer. And the best what I’ve come up with is I just say: Life today.” – William Eggleston 

William Eggleston is known for pioneering color photography. His works include everyday scenes and objects, but his unique style of photography distinguishes him from others. The dazzling splash of colors in his works elevates boring objects into exquisitely crated art and enhances simplicity into spectacular.

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Photo analysis

Eggleston is amazing at transforming boring photos into masterpieces with deep meanings. This photo portrays an old restaurant table with a few bottles of seasoning. This is a dull and meaningless photo on the surface; however, I see beyond what is displayed. His skillful use of colors and photography techniques sparked an unspeakable emotion in my heart. 

First, the table is commonly used for working or eating, activities that require time and patience, and is something to enjoy doing for a long time. It conveys the message that life is something to sit down for and enjoy. 

Second, the seasoning bottles on the table refer to the five tastes humans can feel. Sour, sweet, bitter, spicy, sweet. Like the tastes, emotions are the same. Life is like an emotional roller coaster. There is no consistent pattern. 

Third, the light source comes from the left and gradually dies down toward the right. The wall on the left is painted blue, symbolizing youth and emphasizing passion and stability. But as we move to the right, the color scheme turns darker, into a shade of brown, lightly suggesting the inevitable aging that trails behind time. Brown is the hue of dirt, often associated with feelings of security and acceptance. On the verge of death, humans are relieved, fulfilled, and accepting of their fate.  

The photo constructs the cycle of life. From a blue wall on the left that symbolizes youth and passion to a brown one on the right that correlates with feelings of security and acceptance. The impending death of everyone cannot be seen but will always be lurking in the dark. Life is like a meal. Take your time to enjoy it. Surround yourself with people who make you comfortable, who suit your taste, and let destiny do the rest.  

This masterpiece is not only set off by the exquisite use of colors but also includes formal elements. Line, shape, and focus are a few notable elements in this photo.  

Line: There are two leading lines on either side of the table, pointing toward the center of the photo, driving the viewer’s eyes to the focus point, the seasoning bottles. It creates visual interest and hooks the viewer’s attention onto the heart of the photo. 

Shape: The different shapes of seasoning bottles elevate the depth of the photo and act as a focus point. It creates a contrast between the organically shaped bottles and the geometric environment. The varied levels of the bottles also make the photo more intriguing as there are more objects for the viewer’s eyes to soak in.

Focus: This photo focuses on the seasoning bottles in the center, so the front of the table is blurred out. This highlights the focus point and leads the viewer’s eyes to the seasoning bottles as they get clearer toward the center.