Portrait Images
Sony ZV-E10
COLLECTION ANALYSIS
Planning
I wanted to begin with DoF or shutter speed: using a low shutter speed gives the photo a “hazy” feeling. I believe it would give the audience the impression that the subject is lost in thought, which I would be aiming for. It also implies the subject is stuck somewhere in the back of her/his mind, unable to pay attention to nearby subjects.
A monochromatic image itself emits nostalgia.
The black-and-white color scheme works as another thematic tool to draw out remembrance and fuzziness. It has the concept of “oldness” or something old-fashioned (conventionally, we associate black-and-white colors with age). Old photos are usually black-and-white due to technological limitations. With this associated feeling, intentionally using black-and-white colors can invoke emotions or thoughts in thinking the photo must be something from a long time ago.
Reflection
Although my collection was successful in visually communicating the story regarding the subject, it harbored several flaws.
General strengths provided in the collection would be its use of depth of field (DOF) and leading lines. Providing the fact that the purpose behind this collection was to have the audience engage in the mood of the subject’s nostalgia, the close-up accompanied by the harsh blur created a more intimate image of the subject, ultimately compiling the main theme. The leading lines in the last image create a high angle that is parallel to the subject’s superior spirit when partaking in adventure.
Specifically, a mirror, or any object that reflects can be symbolic, showing the subject looking back at his/her past. Referencing images two and three, a subject positioned behind a wall indicates she is yearning for something unattainable yet physically existent. Contrasting colors can show two different themes, space, and time, highlighting positive and negative space. For instance, a spot of bright lighting can contrast with the surrounding darkness while the subject looks at the glow. In addition, certain colors represent certain emotions and themes. The last two images in the collection represent this concept. Referring back to my own search on color symbolism, red can allude to a passion of a kind. With the subject looking upwards, this is another example of longing for one’s past liveliness.