Observational Photography: Examination

In today's photography lesson we were given a task which was to observe our model during a conversation with someone else. This task was brilliant for really testing my observation skills and capturing a frame at the right moment. To the left is the sequence of the model Kate Moss, taken by the amazing Corrine Day. This image displayed exactly how we had to approach the task in hand.

My attempt:

Here is my attempt at observing my model during conversation. I was able to capture a variety of different gestures and facial expressions which really give the composition an interesting kick. Each different image has a different scale, which I definatly believe adds to the composition and makes the over all image more interesting. I found that the strip layout really drew the eye into the images and provided more of a 'sequenced' look. 

Here is a second attempt I had created using the grid format which is used in Corinne Day's photography above. I always wanted to see how having the images in colour would effect the overall image. The grid format really looks interesting as it has allowed me to piece together a varied composition. The colour in the image looks moderatley ok, but in my opinion having the colour in the image removes any subtleties that the black and white colour scheme achieved.

 I found taking these photographs of my model very exciting. I felt so 'new' being able to just observe my model and take my images based on their own reactions to general conversation rather than me directing them to do as I say. It was lovely to see my model without his 'Photo-face' and looking natural. 

Being photographed was also very strange. I found it quite difficult to relax as the conversation between my group became less frequent. Once the conversation had picked up, I had forgotten completely about being photographed. I enjoyed being photographed in this way because the stereotype of typical 'model' photography is completely washed away.  

Observation Photography: Chesterfield Market

For this lesson we had to go into Chesterfield town centre and take photographs of people in there environment, keeping our eyes open for ironic occurances along the way. Within my photos I focused more on the composition and the type of people I photographed.

 Here is an image I manage to quickly take of what seems to be a man ordering his dinner. I just found the composition of the image really interesting due to all of the angles and shapes which are featured within the compoosition. The angles of the signs and the shape that the persons arms in the foreground are creating add really nicely to the image. I also like how this image captures the environnment really well by the colours included. The silver table and chars by the side of the green and gold stall seem to give off a certain vibe of what Chesterfields town centre may be like.

Here is another image I manage to capture with perfect timing. Just seeing the way this man is hunched over the rail not only attempts to suggest his age, but the way he seems to be manouvering through the rail of clothing is almost 'snake-like'. I find the composition of this image quite interesting also because of the window in the back ground. Just the words 'Tah-Dah' at the side of the mans head seems to be quite comical.

 

When I saw this image whilst arranging the photos that I had taken, this image really stood out to me. The style of the couple walking through the public walkway made them really unique in comparison with the rest of the shoppers within the market. The slightly slanted angle of the image really captures my interest as it seems to really enhance the composition.

Around Chesterfield College

Today was the first lesson of Photography. We were given a task of taking images around specific parts of the building, whilst carefully analysing the environment we were in to interesting compositions and un-noticeable aspects of the college. Here is an image I had taken inside student services. I really find the compositional qualities of this image interesting as it is focusing on a specific section of the image and blurring out the remainder of the shot. I also find the bold red of the metal rail with the pail tone of the walls in the background and the leaflets very effective when focusing on colour contrasts and tonal quality.