Month: May 2025

Structure-FINALS

Posted on by Justin

 

Introduction

This project, titled “Enchanted Structures: A Visual Ode,” is an in – depth exploration of architecture as a profound carrier of mystery and timelessness. The photographs presented here are intended to be a portal, transporting viewers from the ordinary to a realm where structures are not just physical entities but storytellers from past eras or fantastical domains. The overarching goal is to re – imagine and re – present architectural forms as vessels filled with historical, emotional, and imaginative content.

Inspiration and Concept Development

Hiroshi Sugimoto’s body of work serves as a primary wellspring of inspiration. His seascapes and interior photography, especially the series focusing on theater and museum interiors, exude an enduring quality of timelessness. Sugimoto’s masterful use of long – exposure techniques imparts a sense of stillness and continuity, as if time has been suspended in his images. This approach has been fundamental in shaping the conceptual framework of this project.

 

The objective is to capture the essence of structures in a way that detaches them from the normal flow of time, presenting them as eternal and otherworldly. By closely studying Sugimoto’s methods, the focus is on leveraging lighting and exposure to convey this sense of timelessness. This involves seeking out and capturing moments where light interacts with structures in a manner that freezes time, much like the effect achieved in Sugimoto’s photographs. Long – exposure techniques are employed to smooth out ambient light and create a serene, almost surreal atmosphere around the structures.

Creation of the Final Images

First Photograph

The vivid red structure is bathed in a soft, diffused light that creates a dreamy and ethereal atmosphere. Inspired by Sugimoto, a long – exposure was used to capture the gentle glow of the red filaments and the delicate play of light and shadow. The presence of the person within the frame adds a crucial element to the composition. Their silhouette against the bright red background not only provides a sense of scale but also creates a connection between the human and the structure. It makes the viewer contemplate the relationship between the individual and this otherworldly space. The structure’s intricate red threads seem to envelop the person, suggesting a harmonious co – existence or perhaps a journey of discovery within this enchanted environment.

Second Photograph

In this black – and – white interior shot, the geometric patterns of the architecture are emphasized by the play of light and shadow. A long – exposure was utilized to blend the natural light streaming through the openings, resulting in a smooth and continuous visual texture. The people in the image are integrated into the space, their presence adding a dynamic yet subtle element to the otherwise static structure. Their positions and movements within the architectural framework invite viewers to consider how human activity and presence interact with the timelessness of the structure. The monochromatic color scheme further accentuates the timeless quality, making the structure appear as a relic from a distant era, with the people as modern – day visitors traversing its historical and spatial narrative.

Third Photograph

The stark contrast between the dark surroundings and the red – lit rectangular structure is striking. Long – exposure principles were applied to capture the soft glow of the red light, creating a sense of depth and mystery. The person standing near the structure is dwarfed by its imposing presence, which in turn heightens the sense of wonder and mystery. The structure, with its intense red illumination, seems to be a portal or an object of significance, and the person’s proximity to it makes the viewer question their role in this narrative. Are they a seeker of knowledge, a traveler in this mysterious landscape, or simply an observer? The combination of the person and the structure creates a narrative tension, drawing the viewer into a world of speculation and imagination.

Fourth Photograph

In this image, the subject is surrounded by a dense curtain of red threads. A long – exposure was used to enhance the dreamy quality of the scene, softly blurring any minor movements of the threads. The person within this red cocoon is an integral part of the composition. Their posture and position within the threads suggest a sense of exploration or perhaps a moment of pause within this vibrant, otherworldly installation. The red threads, in conjunction with the person, create a visual metaphor for entanglement, connection, or even protection. The structure of the threads becomes a living, breathing entity around the person, and together they form a scene that is both intimate and expansive, inviting viewers to ponder the nature of human – structure relationships.

Fifth Photograph

The silhouette of a person stands in a dimly – lit corridor, with bright light flooding in from the end. A combination of low – key lighting and a long – exposure was used to achieve this dramatic contrast. The person’s solitary presence in the corridor adds a layer of emotional depth to the structure. The corridor, with its stark contrast between light and dark, becomes a metaphor for a journey, a transition, or a moment of contemplation. The person’s position at the threshold between the dark interior and the bright exterior creates a sense of anticipation and introspection. The structure, in this context, serves as a backdrop for the person’s emotional and psychological state, highlighting how architecture can influence and reflect human experience.

Success Criteria and Exploration of the Theme

The success criteria for this project were to evoke feelings of wonder, curiosity, and introspection, and to convey that structures are not just physical entities but hold historical and emotional significance, especially in relation to human interaction. I believe that a degree of success has been achieved. The first image, with its rich red hues and the interaction between the person and the structure, evokes a sense of wonder and draws viewers into a world of imagination, prompting them to think about the connection between the individual and the fantastical environment. The second image, with its geometric precision and the presence of people within the structure, inspires contemplation about the design and purpose of the architecture, as well as how humans fit into its historical context. The third image, with its mysterious red glow and the person’s proximity to the structure, encourages introspection about the unknown and the role of the individual in a mysterious setting.

 

The fourth image, with the person surrounded by the red threads, deepens the sense of wonder and makes viewers consider the tactile and emotional relationship between humans and structures. The fifth image, with the solitary figure in the corridor, further enhances the theme of mystery and timelessness, prompting viewers to reflect on the human experience within architectural spaces.

 

While the theme of structures as vessels of hidden stories, especially in relation to human presence, has been explored, there is room for further enhancement. This could involve incorporating more explicit elements that suggest the passage of time through human activity or more detailed stories within the structures.

Display Decisions and Research

When deciding how to display these images, careful consideration was given to the mood and message conveyed by each, especially in terms of the relationship between the person and the structure. For the first image, with its vibrant red and dreamy quality, a dark, unobtrusive background was chosen to emphasize the colors and the sense of immersion, highlighting the connection between the person and the structure. For the second black – and – white image, a light, textured background was selected to complement its geometric and timeless feel, while also making the people within the structure stand out as part of the narrative. For the third image, a simple, dark background was used to enhance the contrast and mystery of the red – lit structure and the person’s role within it.

 

For the fourth image, a neutral, dark – toned background was chosen to keep the focus on the red threads and the person within, emphasizing their interaction. For the fifth image, a minimalist, light – colored border was employed to frame the stark contrast between the dark corridor and the bright exit, drawing attention to the person’s silhouette and their significance within the structure.

 

Research into display strategies involved studying photography exhibitions and art books featuring architectural photography. It was observed that appropriate background and framing choices can significantly enhance an image’s impact, effectively guiding the viewer’s attention to the key elements of the relationship between the person and the structure. These principles were applied to ensure that the unique qualities of each composition were highlighted.

Personal Aspect of the Work

The personal aspect of this work stems from a deep – seated fascination with the idea that structures are not just inert objects but living entities that interact with humans in profound ways. To me, they are gateways to different times and emotions, and through these photographs, I aim to share my perspective on how architecture can be a medium for human experience, mystery, and timeless beauty. The inclusion of people in the images is a personal choice to highlight the symbiotic relationship between humans and the built environment, and to explore how structures can shape and be shaped by human presence.

What I Hope Viewers Will Understand

I hope that viewers will understand that structures are far more than just physical forms. They are dynamic entities that interact with humans, evoking a wide range of emotions from awe to introspection. I want them to appreciate the beauty in the details of the structures and how human presence can transform and be transformed by these architectural spaces. I also hope they will recognize that even the most ordinary – looking structures can hold deep – seated stories and emotional connections when considered in the context of human interaction.

Future Improvements

Given additional time, further experimentation with long – exposure techniques would be carried out, incorporating different colored filters to add new dimensions of mood to the images, especially in relation to how they affect the perception of the relationship between the person and the structure. Exploration of shooting at various times of day would also be pursued to analyze how the changing quality of light impacts the interaction between humans and structures. Moreover, more in – depth studies of human – structure relationships could be incorporated, perhaps by interviewing individuals about their experiences within these spaces and integrating those stories into the photographic narrative.

Artist research for structures: Henri Cartier – Bresson

Posted on by Justin

Artist Research: Henri Cartier – Bresson

Analysis of the photo

What the photograph shows

This black – and – white photograph by Henri Cartier – Bresson depicts a scene within an urban environment. The central structure is a curved staircase with an ornate railing, which serves as a focal architectural element. A person is seen ascending the stairs, adding a human element to the composition. Surrounding the staircase and the person are numerous pigeons, some in flight and others perched, creating a dynamic and lively atmosphere. The background consists of tiled walls, contributing to the overall sense of an urban, possibly underground or transit – related structure.

Main focus and eye – draw

The main focus is the interaction between the person and the staircase, with the pigeons adding a dynamic layer to the scene. The person on the stairs draws the eye first due to their central position and the contrast of their dark silhouette against the lighter background. The movement of the pigeons then captures attention, creating a sense of motion and energy that complements the static structure of the staircase.

What’s liked about the image

The photograph masterfully combines elements of structure and human presence. Cartier – Bresson’s use of black – and – white enhances the contrasts, highlighting the textures of the tiled walls, the metal of the railing, and the forms of the person and pigeons. The image captures a “decisive moment” that feels both spontaneous and carefully composed, evoking a sense of the everyday hustle and bustle within an urban structure.

Composition style

Framing

The framing is tight and deliberate, enclosing the staircase, the person, and the pigeons within the frame. The curved staircase leads the eye from the bottom left towards the center, guiding the viewer’s gaze through the image. The edges of the frame, defined by the tiled walls and the railing, create a natural boundary that keeps the focus on the main elements.

Contrast

There is a strong contrast between the dark figure of the person and the lighter tones of the tiled walls and the staircase. The contrast between the stationary structure of the staircase and the moving pigeons adds a dynamic tension to the composition. The black – and – white format further accentuates these contrasts, creating a visually striking image.

Lighting

The lighting appears to be ambient, likely from overhead sources, casting soft shadows that enhance the three – dimensionality of the staircase and the person. The light also highlights the movement of the pigeons, making their wings and forms stand out against the background.

Formal elements

Line

The lines in the photograph are both straight and curved. The straight lines of the tiled walls and the vertical elements of the railing provide a sense of order and structure. The curved lines of the staircase and the wings of the pigeons in flight add a dynamic and fluid element, creating a balance between stability and movement.

Color (in terms of tones)

As a black – and – white image, the tones range from deep blacks (the shadowed areas of the person and the staircase) to bright whites (the light – reflecting surfaces on the walls and the undersides of the pigeons’ wings). The mid – tones in the walls and the staircase contribute to a rich and nuanced tonal composition.

Shape

The shapes in the image include the geometric shapes of the tiled walls and the circular patterns of the railing. The organic shapes of the pigeons and the silhouette of the person contrast with these geometric forms, adding visual interest and a sense of harmony to the composition.

Form

The staircase has a three – dimensional form, conveyed through the use of perspective and the play of light and shadow. The person and the pigeons also have a sense of form, with the light defining their contours and giving a sense of volume. The overall form of the scene creates a feeling of depth and spatial awareness.

Texture

The texture of the tiled walls, the metal railing, and the feathers of the pigeons are all visible and emphasized by the black – and – white format and the lighting. The rough texture of the walls, the smooth curves of the railing, and the soft texture of the feathers add to the richness of the visual experience.

Tone

The overall tone of the image is gritty and real, capturing the essence of urban life. It has a sense of movement and energy, balanced by the solid presence of the architectural structure, creating a complex and engaging mood.

Achieving meaning

Cartier – Bresson’s photograph likely aims to explore the relationship between humans and the built environment. The staircase represents the static, man – made structure, while the person and the pigeons introduce elements of movement and life. The image may reflect on the everyday experiences within urban spaces, highlighting the coexistence of structure and spontaneity.

Techniques

Focus

The focus is sharp on the person, the staircase, and the pigeons, ensuring that the details of all elements are clear. This allows for a comprehensive view of the scene, capturing both the textures of the structure and the forms of the people and pigeons.

Aperture settings

An aperture setting that provides a moderate depth of field is likely used. This keeps both the foreground (the person and the pigeons) and the background (the staircase and walls) in focus, enabling the viewer to appreciate the entire scene without any elements being overly blurred.

Shutter speed

A relatively fast shutter speed is used to freeze the motion of the pigeons in flight, capturing the “decisive moment” with clarity. This technique emphasizes the dynamic nature of the scene while maintaining the sharpness of the static elements like the staircase.

How this image inspired me

This photograph by Henri Cartier – Bresson has inspired me to look for the connections between people and structures in my own photography. His ability to capture a moment that is both ordinary and profound has made me more aware of the storytelling potential in everyday scenes. I am now motivated to experiment with black – and – white photography to emphasize contrasts and textures, and to focus on capturing the decisive moments that reveal the relationship between humans and their built surroundings.

Structures: Statement of Intent (final project)

Posted on by Justin

1. Project Title

“Enchanted Structures: A Visual Ode”

2. Audience’s Feelings

My aspiration is to transport viewers into a realm of wonder and contemplation. When they engage with my photographs, I desire for them to be whisked away from the mundane and into a space where structures seem to tell stories of a bygone era or a fantastical world. The images should evoke a sense of curiosity and awe, much like stumbling upon a hidden, ancient cathedral deep in a forest or a mysterious, illuminated pavilion in a dream – like setting. I want the audience to feel a blend of fascination and a gentle pull towards introspection, as if they are peering into a world that is both familiar and yet magically different.

3. Inspiration and Idea Development

I am greatly influenced by the work of Greg Lynn. His architectural renderings often break the boundaries between the real and the imagined, infusing structures with a sense of fluidity and otherworldliness. Lynn’s designs play with form and light in ways that make buildings seem alive and in motion. In my photography, I aim to capture structures in a similar light, exploring how they can seem to transcend their physicality. For example, by using unique angles and lighting, I want to make a simple brick building look like a portal to another dimension.

 

I also draw inspiration from the works of Hiroshi Sugimoto. His seascapes and interior photographs, particularly his series of theater and museum interiors, have a timeless quality. Sugimoto’s long – exposure techniques create a sense of stillness and continuity, as if time has been suspended. I will study his approach to understand how to capture the essence of structures in a way that makes them feel eternal and detached from the normal passage of time. This will help me in my quest to make the structures in my photos seem like relics from a different, more magical timeline.

4. Message and Photography Techniques

My message is that structures are not just inanimate objects but vessels of history, emotion, and untold stories. To convey this, I will focus on dramatic lighting, both natural and artificial. I’ll seek out moments when the light creates strong contrasts, such as the way sunlight streams through a stained – glass window in an old church, casting vivid colors and intricate patterns on the surrounding walls.

 

In terms of techniques, I’ll use long exposures to capture the movement of light, whether it’s the twinkling of city lights around a skyscraper or the soft glow of lanterns around a traditional building. This will add a sense of dynamism to the otherwise static structures. I’ll also experiment with different focal lengths, using wide – angle lenses to capture the grandeur and context of a structure within its environment, and telephoto lenses to isolate and magnify specific details, like the ornate carvings on a facade or the play of shadows on a wall. The subjects of my photographs will range from grand architectural masterpieces to humble, overlooked buildings, all with the aim of revealing their hidden beauty and the magic that lies within their forms.