In an effort to continually build and define and refine my photographic skills, I joined a photography class at Joliet Junior College several weeks back. Last week my instructor Gene Alvear, a talented professional photographer himself, provided the class with the weekly assignment: Produce an image with some form of portrait lighting. As I reflected on the lighting styles, Rembrandt, loop or butterfly, paramount and split lighting were among my choices. I had to choose just one. In my business and in my studio, I find myself most often using Rembrandt or loop lighting. This assignment called for something different. I decided to give split lighting a try. Now for a subject: Several photographer friends of mine shouted "selfie, selfie". Ok, I decided to give it a whirl. Now for a theme: I thought about it and the black/white images of Irving Penn came to mind. The self portrait would be created as a black and white image. Now for the inspiration: I immediately thought of my brother-in-law's who is scheduled to visit town soon and his awesome shoulder tattoo. It is an image of a smiley face as one half and a skull on the other. Perfect...split lighting, black and white image, utilizing a black and white shirt for greater contrast and statement. Add a bit of compositional design and here is what I came up with. For those that might ask...one photograph, multiple lighting techniques and gobo's, minimal post production...set-up to finished product...about 1.5 hours. Enjoy. Carpe diem!
Showing posts with label black and white. Show all posts
Showing posts with label black and white. Show all posts
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Self Portrait: Split Lighting
In an effort to continually build and define and refine my photographic skills, I joined a photography class at Joliet Junior College several weeks back. Last week my instructor Gene Alvear, a talented professional photographer himself, provided the class with the weekly assignment: Produce an image with some form of portrait lighting. As I reflected on the lighting styles, Rembrandt, loop or butterfly, paramount and split lighting were among my choices. I had to choose just one. In my business and in my studio, I find myself most often using Rembrandt or loop lighting. This assignment called for something different. I decided to give split lighting a try. Now for a subject: Several photographer friends of mine shouted "selfie, selfie". Ok, I decided to give it a whirl. Now for a theme: I thought about it and the black/white images of Irving Penn came to mind. The self portrait would be created as a black and white image. Now for the inspiration: I immediately thought of my brother-in-law's who is scheduled to visit town soon and his awesome shoulder tattoo. It is an image of a smiley face as one half and a skull on the other. Perfect...split lighting, black and white image, utilizing a black and white shirt for greater contrast and statement. Add a bit of compositional design and here is what I came up with. For those that might ask...one photograph, multiple lighting techniques and gobo's, minimal post production...set-up to finished product...about 1.5 hours. Enjoy. Carpe diem!
Friday, August 20, 2010
Every 21 Seconds, 2nd Edition
Just the other day author Brian Sweeney came back to the studio for new updated portraits. He is planning a second printing of his book and this time the publisher is going hardcover with the story. Conversation between us ensued about the hard work and effort it takes to be successful. The hard work it takes especially when life deals you something like a traumatic brain injury. He commented to me that "all of this is a testament to where I have come from...someone paralyzed and having to relearn most things...to this." I have to believe he is proud of his triumphs and proud to be a ray of hope for those that suffer from similar traumatic occurrences in their lives. Carpe diem!
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Tranquility
Reflection...Meditation...Tranquility...if only for a few brief moments...one with Nature. As I stepped outside, I took in the moist morning air, heavy with the fragrance of flowers and grass and trees and the recent fresh rains. Taken at a nearby prairie wetland preserve, this image reflects the tranquility I experienced today. Carpe diem!
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Where Have All The Craftsman Gone?
This image was created for a woodwind repair craftsman and musician. He painstakingly repairs instruments other musicians have used or damaged. It takes precision, time, talent, education, effort and a dedication to give 100% service. To be proud of what is presented when the job is finished. Not too many people take pride in the things they do...whether it be a job, a family, how one looks, or the service they give others. I believe this man cares for each and every instrument that graces his workstation...hoping to make it the work of art it once was. Carpe diem!
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Unique Family Portraits
Today I received a request for a "unique family portrait", something different from one of the chain photography stores. I immediately thought of this lovely family...a family of girls that Dad so affectionately cherished...especially his best girl! So many times families and individuals fail to explore the possibilities of something different. As some have said, "Variety is the spice of Life". Feel free to try variety when you come into the studio...Carpe diem!
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Little Boy's Growing Up
Over time I have learned to really appreciate all the different ways parents celebrate their children. One family celebrates each child as they turn 5 years old. I had the pleasure of meeting this Little Boy's sister last year and yesterday I received the honor of photographing him. It was his turn for the "wall of fame" at home, a prominent place in this family's house that celebrates each of the children in the family, particularly when they turn 5 years old. Thanks so much for the honor! Carpe diem!
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