“Structures of Serenity”

My goal is to immerse viewers in a world of profound peace and tranquility. When they encounter my photographs, I want them to momentarily break free from the commotion of everyday life. The images should act as gateways to a quiet, introspective space, much like entering an ancient, deserted chapel or a secluded garden pavilion, fostering a deep sense of stillness and inner calm.

I draw significant inspiration from Jim Pymer. His work often features a unique blend of natural and man – made elements. In his photographs, structures are presented in harmony with their natural surroundings, whether it’s an old barn nestled among fields or a small cabin in the woods. Pymer’s use of light and color is masterful; he often captures soft, diffused light that bathes the structures and their settings in a warm, inviting glow. This approach not only highlights the beauty of the structures but also creates a peaceful and idyllic atmosphere. I’ll study his techniques to understand how to infuse my images with a similar sense of serenity.

I also continue to be inspired by Bernd and Hilla Becher. Their documentation of industrial structures, with their emphasis on simplicity and repetition, remains relevant to my project. I’ll seek out structures with repetitive elements, such as the rows of columns in a dilapidated arcade or the evenly spaced windows in an old tenement building. These patterns can have a soothing, meditative effect, enhancing the overall sense of tranquility in my photographs.

My message is that amidst the chaos of the human – made world, there are pockets of tranquility hidden within structures. To convey this, I’ll focus on soft, diffused lighting, much like Pymer does. I’ll shoot during the golden hour, when the warm, mellow light can gently caress the structures, or on overcast days, which offer a more even, calming illumination.

In terms of techniques, I’ll employ a slow shutter speed to blur any moving elements, such as swaying branches or passing birds. This will emphasize the stillness of the structures, making them seem like timeless, unchanging entities. A shallow depth of field will be used to draw attention to specific details, like the weather – beaten texture of an old wooden fence or the intricate carvings on a stone monument.

The subjects of my photographs will include small, secluded structures like forgotten summerhouses, old stone bridges, and abandoned sheds. These structures, removed from the hustle and bustle of urban areas, hold a quiet charm. By photographing them, I aim to capture and share the peaceful energy they exude, inviting the audience to experience a moment of tranquility through my images.