At the risk of sounding like a broken record - I keep taunting the benefits of having to feel your environment and your inner soul when creating your images. But I haven't chatted much about post processing needing to feel and compliment the captured story and image.
"The Keyhole Sessions" is a group that offers an alternative to life drawing classes. However every once in a while they open it up to photographers. This past Tuesday evening saw the return to all things lusty with Girls on Film II. Held at the Moroccan-inspired Foundation Room, where five beautiful models played it up for a slew of photographers. It was an amazing opportunity to photograph subject matter outside of the daily grind. An atmosphere heavy with kink, sexual tension and urban edge. Models are often partly costumed and come with attitude. Think latex, leather, rope and restraints, all wrapped around models who are there to have as much fun as the artists.
Now that we have painted you a picture, let's turn to example to the top image "Luv Bites #6"
I wanted the post processing to say the same thing I was feeling: intrigue, voyeuristic, like I was transported back to the early 70s free love era. The mood was edgy and grunge like. I felt like a visual ease dropper, observing a dark underground passion fest though a keyhole.
My 1st attempts have me thinking Polaroid - instant capture of time. A medium that was used heavily in the late 60's / 70s. Polaroid film produces "texture and colors that are very real. They're not as perfect as digital, but they're not as cold and sterile, either. I also toyed with 4 x 5 film borders and grain, as well as retro cross processing and toning. Although the toning effect was challenging due to the dark nature of the original images. I'm still not sure which mood fits better with the shoot. This will come in time. For now I continue to experiment while the experience is still fresh in my mind .... and loins. LOL
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Luv Bites
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
A "Broken" Moment In time
The ability to 'feel' is an amazing gift and not one to be taken for granted. Emotion is also one of the most recognizable human elements that an artist can tap into. Whether you are searching for inspiration or want to tell a story or project a mood.
I often try to teach this concept to new artists when mentoring. It takes more than just skill and the obvious to tap into what we are experiencing at any given moment. It requires that we be honest and true to ourselves. It means that we can't be afraid to show what really is transpiring deep within our souls. Only then can a true piece of art be born.
Here is an example, a snap shot of time that I have recently endured. A self portrait taken in an abandon college. Feeling as broken, lonely and desolate as the environment that I was experiencing. I took advantage of all the texture and sensation that filled me and melted into my surroundings to tell a story. Thus the series "Broken was born.
This particular images is symbolic - Even when one door closes - another will open, revealing new opportunities, journeys and treasures. It's just a matter of summoning the strength to get up and walk through. To move forward to the next great thing that lies ahead.
To see more of the series, check out my Flickr sight: http://www.flickr.com/photos/orangeroads/
