The researcher
Study of light and dark
Study of light and dark
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Oct, 2016Views
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Awards
Member Selection Award
Winner in Time to Study Photo Challenge
Peer Award
Outstanding Creativity
Magnificent Capture
Absolute Masterpiece
Superb Composition
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Behind The Lens
Location
This photo was taken in my dining room. It was a two hour set up building a background of clothes using two C-Stands and a pole on which to hang all. Books were purposely scattered around the table. The scull with feathers placed strategically to be included. The candles were placed specifically to create lighting the side of the face, but not spill over to the opposite side. My goal was to create dark theme, similar to film noir, yet have a hint of humor such as having the subject where a leather flying helmet and two pairs of glasses on top of his head and wearing a pair while reading.Time
Late afternoon, all daylight was blocked out.Lighting
The only lighting used was the two candles. Which meant that the subject had to stay absolutely still when ready to take the shot. At first I tried using a 150 Arri spot. It turned out to be to much light and not give the dark look that I desired. My goal was to create all in camera and not have to go to Photoshop.Equipment
My equipment includes Canon Mark III, tripod, 2 sec timer release. At the time I used EF 24 - 104 F 4.0. There were three or four test shots. I do not remember the exact length of time.Inspiration
I am an admirer of Gregory Crewdson photography.Editing
There is very little Photoshop use with this particular photograph other than darkening a little more on the left lower side. The whole shot was done in camera.In my camera bag
I do not have a whole lot of equipment. Wish I did. As of writing this I have Canon Mark III, EF 24 - 105 F 4.0, EF 85 F 1.8, EF 135 F 1.2 Tripod, Gradient filter and Polarizing filter. I have 3 extra batteries. I also have a Nikon 5100, 70 - 300 lens, 50 mm F 1.4, and 18 - 55 lens. the Canon was my move up camera.Feedback
Experimentation and exploration is the best I can recommend. I have used paintings such as Vermeer, Rembrandt and Gerrit van Honthorst for ideas on creating dramatic lighting and possible scene sets. Most of my friends love being involved and usually come up with ideas for costumes which do not have to be period, just creative. I also do my still life's with the same technique and research.
