Structure-FINALS

 

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

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)

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.

Top 10 movement

 

  1. Close – up: Focus on small details of fabric patterns.

       2. Depth of Field: Blur background, make fabric clear.

  1. Leading Lines: Use fabric and path to guide eyes.

  1. Lighting: Natural light brightens colors.

  1. Framing: Fabric frames parts of the scene.

  1. Movement: Catch fabric in motion.

  1. Angle: Different angles for varied views.

  1. Texture: Highlight fabric’s surface feel.

  1. Color: Show color relationships.

  1. Foreground – Background: Show interaction between humans and fabric.

Final movement photos

Analyzing “The Poetry of Motion”

Introduction

As part of my project “The Poetry of Motion: An Exploration of General Movement”, a series of images have been pivotal in showcasing my interpretation of movement. The overarching aim of this project is to evoke awe and wonder about the diverse manifestations of movement and celebrate it as a fundamental part of life.

Inspiration and Concept Development

I drew inspiration from photographers like Nicholas Goodden, Ernst Haas, Alexey Titarenko, Trent Parke, and Sam Taylor – Wood. Goodden’s work inspired me to pay attention to the subtleties of movement in natural and everyday scenes. Ernst Haas’ use of color and light to emphasize motion influenced my approach to enhancing the dynamic feel of my images. Alexey Titarenko’s documentation of urban movement made me consider how to capture the energy of a group in motion, while Trent Parke’s street photography style encouraged me to seek out candid moments of movement. Sam Taylor – Wood’s long – exposure techniques for creating a sense of continuity in movement inspired my experimentation with different shutter speeds.

To develop my concepts, I experimented with various photographic techniques. I tried long – exposure to capture the blurred, flowing motion of slow – moving subjects, and high – speed shutter speeds to freeze the action of fast – moving objects. I also played with different angles and perspectives, shooting from low angles to make moving objects appear more powerful or from high angles to capture the overall pattern of movement.

Creation of the Final Images

I employed a variety of techniques to capture different aspects of movement. For one image, I used a relatively high – speed shutter speed to freeze the moment, creating a sense of rapid, disorderly movement. The composition of the various elements in the frame gave a feeling of chaos and energy, much like a swarm of insects or a group of people rushing in a busy street. The natural lighting helped to highlight the details of the moving objects and added to the authenticity of the captured movement.

For another, I utilized a long – exposure technique. The blurred streaks of the moving elements created a smooth, dreamy effect. The elements in the frame seemed to be moving in a circular or swirling pattern, similar to the movement of water in a whirlpool or the rotation of a carousel. The soft, diffused lighting enhanced the sense of fluidity and calmness associated with this type of movement.

In a third image, I focused on capturing the gentle, rhythmic movement of fabric panels suspended in an open grassy area. The soft breeze caused the panels to sway, creating a serene and graceful motion. I used a moderate shutter speed to capture the movement without excessive blurring, allowing the details of the vibrant floral patterns on the panels to remain visible. The natural sunlight provided a warm, even illumination, highlighting the colors and textures of the fabric, and enhancing the sense of movement as the light and shadows shifted with the panels’ motion.

Success Criteria and Exploration of the Theme

My success criteria were to create images that clearly convey the essence of movement, evoke an emotional response related to movement, and show the diversity of movement. I believe I have achieved some success. The image with the frozen action and chaotic composition effectively conveys a sense of energetic movement, likely evoking feelings of excitement or urgency in the viewer. The long – exposure image with its circular movement pattern clearly represents a more fluid and cyclical form of movement, which can evoke a sense of tranquility or dizziness. The image of the swaying fabric panels conveys a sense of peaceful, undulating movement, likely to evoke feelings of calmness and appreciation for the simple beauty of natural motion.

I think I have successfully explored the theme of movement. By using different techniques, I have demonstrated distinct types of movement. However, I could have done more to explore the interaction between different types of movement within a single image or to incorporate more complex movement scenarios.

Display Decisions and Research

When deciding how to display these images, I considered the mood and message of each. For the image with energetic and chaotic movement, I chose a simple, dark background to make the moving objects stand out and enhance the sense of dynamism. For the image with smooth, flowing movement, I selected a light, neutral background to complement the calm and dreamy atmosphere. For the image of the swaying fabric panels, I plan to use a neutral, light – colored background that won’t compete with the vibrant colors of the fabric, helping to emphasize the movement and visual appeal of the patterns.

I researched display strategies by looking at photography exhibitions, online galleries, and art books. I noticed that the context in which an image is displayed can significantly affect its impact. For example, large – format prints in a well – lit, minimalistic gallery can make an image more powerful. I applied these principles by ensuring that the images were presented in a way that focused the viewer’s attention on the movement within the photos.

Personal Aspect of the Work

What’s personal about my work is my perception of the world as a constantly moving and evolving place. Movement represents life, change, and growth to me. Through these photos, I’m sharing my view of how movement can be both chaotic and harmonious, and how it shapes our experiences. Each image is a reflection of a moment that I found fascinating, and it’s a way for me to communicate my emotions and thoughts about movement.

What I Hope Viewers Will Understand

I hope viewers will understand that movement is a rich and diverse phenomenon. The images showcase different sides of movement, from the energetic and disorderly to the smooth and cyclical, and the serene and rhythmic. I want them to see that movement can be both exciting and calming, and that it’s an integral part of our lives, whether we’re aware of it or not. I also hope they will appreciate the beauty in the different forms of movement captured in these photos.

Future Improvements

If I had more time, I would like to experiment with different lighting setups. For the image with chaotic movement, I could use colored lights to add a new dimension. For the image with cyclical movement, I could try using backlighting to enhance the sense of depth. For the image of the swaying panels, I would experiment with different times of day to see how the changing light affects the movement and appearance. I also want to explore the use of multiple exposures to combine different types of movement in a single image. Additionally, I would love to expand my subject matter to include more complex movement scenarios, such as the movement of animals in a natural habitat or the movement of machinery in an industrial setting.

Artist Research: Nicholas Goodden

Artist Research: Nicholas Goodden

Analysis of the photo

What the photograph shows

The photograph depicts a large, solitary tree standing prominently in an open grassy field. The sky above is filled with dynamic, streaked clouds, suggesting movement. The image is in black and white, which emphasizes the contrast between the tree, the field, and the sky.

Main focus and eye – draw

The main focus is the large tree, which stands out due to its size and central position in the frame. The eye is immediately drawn to it as it dominates the composition. The streaked clouds in the sky also draw attention, adding a sense of drama and movement that complements the stillness of the tree.

What’s liked about the image

The contrast between the static tree and the dynamic, streaked clouds creates a captivating visual tension. The black – and – white format simplifies the scene, highlighting the textures and tones, and gives it a timeless, almost nostalgic quality. The open space of the field enhances the sense of solitude and grandeur of the tree.

Composition style

Framing

The open field frames the tree, making it the central element. The horizon line and the expanse of the sky above and the field below create a natural border around the tree, emphasizing its prominence.

Contrast

There is a strong contrast between the dense foliage of the tree and the open, empty field. The contrast between the static tree and the moving clouds adds depth and interest. In terms of tones, the black – and – white format shows a wide range of contrasts from the dark trunk of the tree to the lighter areas of the sky and grass.

Lighting

The lighting appears to be natural, likely from daylight. The way the clouds are illuminated suggests that the light source is from above, casting soft shadows on the tree and the field. The lack of harsh shadows indicates diffused lighting, which could be due to an overcast sky or the use of a filter to soften the light.

Formal elements

Line

The tree has organic, irregular lines in its branches and foliage, which contrast with the more horizontal lines of the horizon and the streaked, diagonal lines of the clouds. These lines create a sense of movement and balance in the composition.

Color (in terms of tones)

As a black – and – white image, the tones range from very dark (the tree trunk and some areas of the foliage) to very light (the bright areas of the sky). The mid – tones are present in the grass and the lighter parts of the tree, creating a balanced tonal composition.

Shape

The tree has an organic, rounded shape, while the clouds have more fluid, streaked shapes. The field has a flat, expansive shape that provides a stable base for the composition.

Form

The tree has a three – dimensional form, with the play of light and shadow enhancing its volume. The clouds also have a sense of form, with the streaking effect giving them a dynamic, almost sculptural quality.

Texture

The tree’s foliage and bark have a textured appearance, which is emphasized by the black – and – white format. The grass in the field has a softer, more uniform texture, and the clouds have a smooth, flowing texture due to the streaking effect.

Tone

The wide range of tones, from the dark tones of the tree to the light tones of the sky, creates a rich and engaging visual experience. The mid – tones in the grass and the tree’s lighter areas add depth and balance to the overall tonal composition.

Achieving meaning

Goodden may be using the contrast between the stillness of the tree and the movement of the clouds to convey themes of stability and change. The solitary tree could represent resilience and longevity, while the moving clouds symbolize the transient nature of life. The black – and – white format might also be used to evoke a sense of timelessness and contemplation.

Techniques

Focus

The camera is likely focused on the tree, with the field and the sky also in reasonable focus. This creates a clear and detailed image of the main subject while still giving context to the surrounding environment.

Aperture settings

The image likely has a moderate depth of field, allowing both the tree and the background elements (field and sky) to be in focus. This could be achieved with an aperture setting that balances the need to keep the main subject sharp while also including the context of the scene.

Shutter speed

The streaked clouds suggest a longer shutter speed was used to capture the movement. This technique adds a sense of dynamism to the otherwise static scene, creating an interesting interplay between the still tree and the moving clouds.

How this image inspired me

Nicholas Goodden’s photograph has inspired me to explore the use of contrast in my own photography. The contrast between stillness and movement, as well as the contrast in tones, has made me more aware of how these elements can be used to create a powerful visual narrative. I am now interested in experimenting with long – exposure techniques to capture movement in otherwise static scenes, similar to how the clouds are depicted in this image. Additionally, the use of a monochromatic color scheme has shown me the beauty of simplicity and how it can enhance the emotional impact of a photograph. I will look for ways to incorporate these elements in my own work, whether it’s through landscape photography or other genres, to evoke a sense of contemplation and timelessness.

My vision for movement(new)

Statement of Intent/Vision

Statement of Intent

 

  • The title of my project is: “The Poetry of Motion: An Exploration of General Movement”
  • I want my audience to feel: Awe and wonder at the diverse manifestations of movement in the world around them. I aim to evoke a sense of fluidity and the continuous cycle of change that movement represents, inspiring viewers to notice the beauty in the simplest acts of motion.
  • I will get inspiration and develop my ideas by looking for photographs that show: A wide range of movements, from the graceful flight of birds, the undulating waves of the ocean, to the gentle swaying of plants in the wind. I’ll study how photographers like Nicholas Goodden, Ernst Haas, Alexey Titarenko, Trent Parke, and Sam Taylor – Wood have used different photographic techniques to freeze or emphasize motion, and draw inspiration from their approaches.

 

My Vision

 

  • Message: My message is to celebrate movement as a fundamental and captivating aspect of our existence. Movement is not just about physical displacement; it’s a symbol of life, energy, and evolution. By focusing on general movement, I want to show that it’s all around us, in nature, in the elements, and in the actions of living beings, and that it holds a unique kind of magic.
  • How to show the message with photography: I will utilize a variety of photographic techniques. For fast – moving subjects like animals in motion, I’ll use high – speed shutter speeds to capture sharp, detailed images that freeze the moment. For slower, more fluid movements such as waterfalls or clouds, long – exposure techniques will be employed to create smooth, dreamy effects that convey a sense of continuity. I’ll also play with angles and perspectives to add a dynamic feel to the images. In terms of style, I’ll aim for a naturalistic approach, highlighting the raw and unfiltered beauty of movement. I’ll strive to connect this vision to a global context, emphasizing that movement is a universal phenomenon that unites all life forms across the planet.

Statement of intent-structures

Statement of Intent: Structures

1. Project Title

“Structures of Serenity”

2. Audience’s Feelings

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.

3. Inspiration and Idea Development

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.

4. Message and Photography Techniques

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.