_MG_3251 (2)
Jan, 2020Views
1479
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Awards
Runner Up in Indoor Moments Photo Contest
Curator's Selection
Top Shot Award 22
Contest Finalist in Creative Moments Photo Contest
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Outstanding Creativity
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Top 20 rankTop 10 rank week 1
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Same photographer See allBehind The Lens
Behind The Lens
Location
This image was taken in a condo I lived in which was on the fifth floor. I had taken a few series of photos using these large windows and enjoyed the outcome and felt there were other creative possibilities I could explore using this particular area.Time
This shot was taken around 2 or 3 pm EST as the sun began its journey to the west. I prepared for the shoot by moving the couch, coffee table, and all wall decor to create an empty space. As the window faced towards the west and there were neighboring buildings that could block the light, I had to work quickly.Lighting
Because I had used this area for shoots before, I was familiar with the ever-changing lighting conditions that occurred from the windows. Depending on the time of day, the light could create some pretty interesting effects such as geometrical patterns on the walls and floors, so timing was imapritive. For this particular shoot, I wanted lighting which was bright in the background, a diffused, soft, light that would create a silhouette of the subject ( ME ), while leaving the foreground of the room dark. Thus creating a three way juxtaposition between dark negative space, soft illuminating light, and bright light, giving it depth, emotion, and an intesrting visual aspect.Equipment
Tripod Canon ESO REBEL T5i Aperture f/5.6 Shutter speed 1/2000 ISO 400 Focal length 28/1 No FlashInspiration
Intorospectively this was where I was in my life, in that moment. To be able to express myself through imagery felt more expressive than any words I could speak or write. Since I already had experimented with the natural light from the windows, I mostly focused on the type of mood I wanted to create which was one of isolation, contemplation, vulnerability, along with softness and a beauty I possessed within, but did not acknolage or feel at the time.Editing
I edited the RAW image in Photoshop using Curves to balance the shadows, mid-tones, and highlights. I adjusted the contrast, brightness, and color saturation then converted it to jpeg. I used the dodge and burn tool to accentuate the dress and blinds then completed the image by slightly cropping it and adjusting the image size.In my camera bag
I now shoot with a Canon EOS 90D, Canon Ultrasonic 50mm lens, and a Canon EFS 18-200mm lens. I keep a back up battery, and charger, 3 SD cards. shoe flash, and polarized filters, which I never seem to use. Subsequentially, I always pack extra clothing and shoes for every possible weather condition and senerio, as well as a stash of power bars, water, and props consisting of everything from fabrics, ornimental jewelry, head dresses, makeup, and wigs, because you never know when inspiration or perfect setting to shoot will strike! Always be prepared for the unknown! You'll be happy if you did and left wanting if you did not!Feedback
Every photographer works differently and has their own methods to create their images. I find most of my ideas for my images come from a combination of different sources which almost always resonates from a place deep within. This may be from a mood I'm in, events that are affecting my life, but most often through observing my current surroundings in which my very active imagination naturally and spontaneously creates a photographic narrative. This then pushes me to emulate what my mind's eye saw the best I can. This image is an example of how I work. I see it in my mind first then create it. Technically speaking, I suggest that you study the light from the window your using for a day or so. See how it affects the whole space. Contemplate what fabrics will look best under these conditions. I went for white thin layered flowing attire. I suggest you shoot in RAW format and in manual setting. A tripod is a must, especially when shooting in dim or dark light. Be sure to remove anything you do not want in the photograph, such as curtains, furniture, wires, and cords. Take some test shots so you can adjust your aperture, shutter speed, and ISO so you can achieve your desired result. If your subject is NOT yourself, help them by explaining what you're envisioning, and give them positive direction on body positioning and facial expression. If you ARE the subject, as I was, get to know your timer setting. It will be your new best friend. I gave myself 10 consecutive shots in case of motion blur, etc... Be sure to experiment, think out of the box and have fun.
