Light and dark
The manipulation of lighting to convey the contrast between shadows and light.
statement of intent
For my exam, I have chosen the theme of light and dark because the overwhelming amount of possibilities with this project has intrigued me to pursue it.
For my initial research, I will start observing world renowned light and dark photographers such as Willy Ronis and Horst P Horst. I have chosen Willy Ronis because I feel a connection between his photography and my ideas. I will try to absorb as many valuable techniques that can take my photography to the next level. He is an inspiration to me and I feel that his vision can be portrayed through my photos. He has an incredible eye for a landscape photograph, he manipulates components by ordering them precisely to make them work with his idea. Whereas, Horst P Horst is special for his photography with human interactions. He can create emotions with his photographs by using models and textures. He inspires me because his photographs are simply astounding.
My first thought on this theme, is to investigate the different combinations of light and dark. I plan on doing this by introducing vibrant colours to contrast with the black shadows. This route will take a lot of planning but I believe this vision is the right one I want to follow. I want to also implement an object to make the photo express more emotion.
To show progression through my work, I must proceed taking my photos to a high level of standard and class. I must precisely garner the perfect lighting and shadows to maximize my progression in my photography. I need to portray my skill of being able to manipulate photos by adjusting the composition and rule of thirds to take my photo to the next level.
During this project, I will critically analyse my work to develop my thoughts and ideas to enhance my overall project to the highest standard to express my understanding and knowledge of this theme.
For my initial research, I will start observing world renowned light and dark photographers such as Willy Ronis and Horst P Horst. I have chosen Willy Ronis because I feel a connection between his photography and my ideas. I will try to absorb as many valuable techniques that can take my photography to the next level. He is an inspiration to me and I feel that his vision can be portrayed through my photos. He has an incredible eye for a landscape photograph, he manipulates components by ordering them precisely to make them work with his idea. Whereas, Horst P Horst is special for his photography with human interactions. He can create emotions with his photographs by using models and textures. He inspires me because his photographs are simply astounding.
My first thought on this theme, is to investigate the different combinations of light and dark. I plan on doing this by introducing vibrant colours to contrast with the black shadows. This route will take a lot of planning but I believe this vision is the right one I want to follow. I want to also implement an object to make the photo express more emotion.
To show progression through my work, I must proceed taking my photos to a high level of standard and class. I must precisely garner the perfect lighting and shadows to maximize my progression in my photography. I need to portray my skill of being able to manipulate photos by adjusting the composition and rule of thirds to take my photo to the next level.
During this project, I will critically analyse my work to develop my thoughts and ideas to enhance my overall project to the highest standard to express my understanding and knowledge of this theme.
mood board
human interaction
black and white
natural
ARTIST RESEARCH-willy ronis
Ronis was a French Photographer. He was appreciated highly due to his photos representing his post war life in Paris and Provence. He was acknowledged for his photographs as they were based on Fashion and nudity. This shows that he loved displaying natural beauty in his images. His photos persistently consisted the theme of 'light and dark'.
He has lived and worked in Paris throughout his life, this is where he has captured his brilliant photos. The Majority of his photographs were taken of the beautiful landscapes in Paris. He was one of the leading photographers during his time in the 1990's. What made him unique was his admiration towards the light and dark idea.
He has lived and worked in Paris throughout his life, this is where he has captured his brilliant photos. The Majority of his photographs were taken of the beautiful landscapes in Paris. He was one of the leading photographers during his time in the 1990's. What made him unique was his admiration towards the light and dark idea.
ANALYSIS
This picture taken by Willy Ronis is absolutely stunning. This image flourishes due to its elegance and class. Using the rule of thirds elevates the photo by implicating a focus point on the sublime structure of the Eiffel tower. The use of black and white creates a feeling of deepness. Also, the couple enhance the photo by adding a sense of love and happiness. These individual components create a masterpiece.
Composition is used intricately; this is evident by how complicated the use shapes are in this photo. The pattern of the fence mirrors the shape of the Eiffel Tower, this is clever because the horizontal lining reflects the Eiffel Tower more greatly. This picture was taken on a medium depth of field and on a fast shutter speed. The photo is exposed slightly to create a blur effect on the background. There is a vanishing point that reaches out to the trees in the background. The contrast in clothing between black and white creates noticeable difference that adds another element to the photo.
What I like about his picture is how Ronis uses framing to condense the photo into the relevant aspects of it by exterminating the unnecessary pieces of the image, this make the photo look more professional. This photographer expresses love very well by making the photo present its natural beauty. It is precisely taken to reflect the photographers thoughts of nature.
This photo shows how light and dark can be displayed in landscape photography. This gives me an idea on how I can use the theme of light and dark in my photography.
Composition is used intricately; this is evident by how complicated the use shapes are in this photo. The pattern of the fence mirrors the shape of the Eiffel Tower, this is clever because the horizontal lining reflects the Eiffel Tower more greatly. This picture was taken on a medium depth of field and on a fast shutter speed. The photo is exposed slightly to create a blur effect on the background. There is a vanishing point that reaches out to the trees in the background. The contrast in clothing between black and white creates noticeable difference that adds another element to the photo.
What I like about his picture is how Ronis uses framing to condense the photo into the relevant aspects of it by exterminating the unnecessary pieces of the image, this make the photo look more professional. This photographer expresses love very well by making the photo present its natural beauty. It is precisely taken to reflect the photographers thoughts of nature.
This photo shows how light and dark can be displayed in landscape photography. This gives me an idea on how I can use the theme of light and dark in my photography.
more of his photographs
artist research-horst p horst
Horst was a German/American photographer. He was well known for his photography as it was based around fashion and women. His methods consisted of careful preparation and advanced studio lighting. Later in his life, he became an army photographer.
His photos carried out the theme of 'light and dark'. He often used spotlights to create the black and white lighting. Many books throughout his career featured his photography, this shows his success as a leading photographer throughout the 1900's.
His photos carried out the theme of 'light and dark'. He often used spotlights to create the black and white lighting. Many books throughout his career featured his photography, this shows his success as a leading photographer throughout the 1900's.
analysis
This photograph by Horst is incredible. The theme of light and dark is used excellently to enhance the beauty of the dress; the shadows around the women makes her almost glow. The lighting is precisely created to catch the viewers eye of the model. The photographer also uses worms eye view to fit the statues of the faces in the photo, this adds another dimension to the image.
This picture is taken on a shallow depth of field to target the focus point on the model, a fast shutter speed is used as there is no movement involved in the photo. The picture is perfectly framed to cut any unwanted textures in the background. The composition is positioned in the centre of the photo to prevent the viewer from diverting his sight away from the model. The light descending above the model emphasizes the beauty of the model. The faces placed carefully below the model creates a connection between them which makes her look like a piece of art.
Beauty is portrayed excellently in this photo. The colour contrast between black in the background plus white in the dress and rocks allows the model to shine in the photo. The white dress and the models stance gives connotations of angels.
This picture is taken on a shallow depth of field to target the focus point on the model, a fast shutter speed is used as there is no movement involved in the photo. The picture is perfectly framed to cut any unwanted textures in the background. The composition is positioned in the centre of the photo to prevent the viewer from diverting his sight away from the model. The light descending above the model emphasizes the beauty of the model. The faces placed carefully below the model creates a connection between them which makes her look like a piece of art.
Beauty is portrayed excellently in this photo. The colour contrast between black in the background plus white in the dress and rocks allows the model to shine in the photo. The white dress and the models stance gives connotations of angels.
more of his photographs
first shoot
Name: Abdulhai Salloo Shoot: 1 Date: 02/02/18
Project title: Beauty
plan: For my first shoot, I plan on capturing close up shots of a model with a beautiful pink background. I want to portray a sense of happiness in this photo. I want to find the right blend of colours between black and pink. To show love, I am going to make the light aspect overpower the darkness in the image.
For technical development, I am going to use a short depth of field and a high aperture to get the desired distance between the camera and model. The shutter speed is going to be rapid as I dont plan on implementing movement into this shoot. Regarding the composition, I want the models stance to be mirrored with the direction of the rose.
I want to keep the focal point central to constrict the viewers attention away from the model. I want to keep the textures behind the model clean by implementing nothing in the background. I also want the model to wear black clothing to make the colours work with the shadow. I am going to get the model to wear pink lip stick so the colour compliments the rose.
Project title: Beauty
plan: For my first shoot, I plan on capturing close up shots of a model with a beautiful pink background. I want to portray a sense of happiness in this photo. I want to find the right blend of colours between black and pink. To show love, I am going to make the light aspect overpower the darkness in the image.
For technical development, I am going to use a short depth of field and a high aperture to get the desired distance between the camera and model. The shutter speed is going to be rapid as I dont plan on implementing movement into this shoot. Regarding the composition, I want the models stance to be mirrored with the direction of the rose.
I want to keep the focal point central to constrict the viewers attention away from the model. I want to keep the textures behind the model clean by implementing nothing in the background. I also want the model to wear black clothing to make the colours work with the shadow. I am going to get the model to wear pink lip stick so the colour compliments the rose.
final image
setup
personal opinion
My opening shoot was highly successful. I have conveyed the emotions I desired for my first set of images. The shoot was finalized to look exactly how it wanted it to. During the shoot, I experimented with different angles and perspectives. I feel that I have executed the perfect combination of colours.
To present refinement and understanding, I incorporated black and white into the image. This is to portray a different perspective to the photo. The black and white allows the photo to look clean and simple. whereas, the original photo is much more complex and classy.
To present refinement and understanding, I incorporated black and white into the image. This is to portray a different perspective to the photo. The black and white allows the photo to look clean and simple. whereas, the original photo is much more complex and classy.
second shoot
Name: Abdulhai Salloo Shoot: 2 Date: 09/03/18
Project Title: Refraction
plan: To develop my work further, I intend on diverting my thinking towards a new direction. I want to create a new sort of feeling with my images. To pursue this route, I plan on experimenting with just an object. I must implement an object that will make my photos look mystical. For my second shoot, I intend on using a reflective object like glass to experiment with the refraction of light. This will contrast with the darkness of the shadows. I want the light rays to bounce off the object in many different ways. regarding the composition, I want to keep it central.
Regarding the technical point of view, I intend on using a shallow depth of field whilst on a high aperture. The composition yet again will be central.
The background is going to be white and the light will portray a yellow shade. I want to work with different angles to find the best way I can create shine in this image. The shadow will take up half of the image. This is to show a clear contrast between light and dark.
Project Title: Refraction
plan: To develop my work further, I intend on diverting my thinking towards a new direction. I want to create a new sort of feeling with my images. To pursue this route, I plan on experimenting with just an object. I must implement an object that will make my photos look mystical. For my second shoot, I intend on using a reflective object like glass to experiment with the refraction of light. This will contrast with the darkness of the shadows. I want the light rays to bounce off the object in many different ways. regarding the composition, I want to keep it central.
Regarding the technical point of view, I intend on using a shallow depth of field whilst on a high aperture. The composition yet again will be central.
The background is going to be white and the light will portray a yellow shade. I want to work with different angles to find the best way I can create shine in this image. The shadow will take up half of the image. This is to show a clear contrast between light and dark.
final image
personal opinion
Regarding my second shoot, I feel that the final image is exactly what I wanted. My long thought out planning has lead to perfection. On the day of shooting, everything worked together in harmony. The lighting and shadow was highly controlled.
The black and white version was done by examining different options regarding the settings. After the edit, the photo looks elegant upon the viewers eye.
The black and white version was done by examining different options regarding the settings. After the edit, the photo looks elegant upon the viewers eye.
shoot 3
Name: Abdulhai Salloo shoot: 3 Date: 23/03/18
Project title: Manchester
Plan: To extend my project further, I plan on incorporating landscape photography into my work. Manchester is a mesmerising city that I want to take advantage of. Architecture is portrayed beautifully across this city. My objective is to walk along the popular streets of Manchester to find different unique compositions that I come across my vision.
I will use a deep depth of field whilst on a low aperture. The ISO will be determined by the darkness outside. I could use a warmer light if the sky is too greyish.
After the photographs are taken, light and dark will be expressed through photoshop. I will use black and white to convert my final image into something that matches this theme.
Project title: Manchester
Plan: To extend my project further, I plan on incorporating landscape photography into my work. Manchester is a mesmerising city that I want to take advantage of. Architecture is portrayed beautifully across this city. My objective is to walk along the popular streets of Manchester to find different unique compositions that I come across my vision.
I will use a deep depth of field whilst on a low aperture. The ISO will be determined by the darkness outside. I could use a warmer light if the sky is too greyish.
After the photographs are taken, light and dark will be expressed through photoshop. I will use black and white to convert my final image into something that matches this theme.
final image
refinement
before |
after |
Personal opinion
My final image was taken along this beautiful path I discovered. This shoot was predominantly me searching for areas that express nature stunningly. Overall, I believe that I have come up with something I am quite proud of. The rule of thirds was placed on the bridge to place the viewers attention to it. The water accompany's the photo by providing a vanishing point at the end of the river. The sky was bright which helped my image.
Shoot 4
Name: Abdulhai Salloo Shoot: 4 Date: 17/03/18
Project Title: Fashion
Plan: For my final shoot, I want my model to portray confidence. I will use a Black background that matches his outfit. The focus point will be kept central on the model. Regarding a prop, I have decided to use sunglasses as they provide another element of style. The model will create a various amount of different poses to keep his look different.
The photo will be taken on a shallow depth of field whilst on a high aperture. The lighting used will be a strong white shade. The framing will exterminate a large amount of the background.
Project Title: Fashion
Plan: For my final shoot, I want my model to portray confidence. I will use a Black background that matches his outfit. The focus point will be kept central on the model. Regarding a prop, I have decided to use sunglasses as they provide another element of style. The model will create a various amount of different poses to keep his look different.
The photo will be taken on a shallow depth of field whilst on a high aperture. The lighting used will be a strong white shade. The framing will exterminate a large amount of the background.
final image
exam plan
For my exam, I will proceed to thoroughly edit images to further improve the quality of my images. I am going to finalise the product to make my photos look more professional and classy. To do this, I will use a technique call 'dodge and burn' which will lighten up and darken different areas of the face. This will make intricate incisions of light on the models face. I am going to edit my best photos from my first and last shoot. I will also implement black and white into it to add variation. I am doing all this because I find my photography as a piece of art and I want it to be beautiful as I dabble with precision.
To finalise my exam, I will conger all my editing into a final outcome. A magazine cover. I love fashion and by doing this I am placing myself into the shoes of other great cover designers. Great clothing is essential for many people, I feel that I am following my passion.
To finalise my exam, I will conger all my editing into a final outcome. A magazine cover. I love fashion and by doing this I am placing myself into the shoes of other great cover designers. Great clothing is essential for many people, I feel that I am following my passion.
EVALUATION
The theme of light and dark was special; It enabled me to broaden my perspective on photography by presenting me with a new dimension of skills that I have added to my collection. Working with lighting was truly something unique that I had never prospered in until now. Adjusting the levels between light and shadows is something I will continue to pursue throughout my life. I have already begun manipulating lighting outside of my work.
Personally, The greatest feature of this theme was the photography I was given the opportunity to devise. The adequate lighting equipment we used was highly influential on my images. Being able to use models and objects to conger masterpieces was incredible. Furthermore, I have derived many new skills on photoshop that are quite complex to obtain. experimenting has been the most important factor during this project. Manipulating different variables in my photos has allowed me to create the best possible results for my images.
The photographers that I have researched have been vastly detrimental towards my development as a photographer. There understanding has fuelled me to make sure their ideas have been presented through my work. Willy Ronis loved the environmental influences of Paris. I tried to replicate it in the shoot I captured in Manchester. I worked with framing and composition to accumulate the best photo possible that expresses natural beauty. On the other hand, Horst P Horst used his awareness of fashion to create his masterpieces. This is the direction I planed on fully committing my time to during this theme. My first shoot was highly successful taking into account it was the beginning of my journey. The black and white edit came out exactly how I predicted it would look like. Regarding my second shoot, It needed thorough planning to manipulate light. However, I was really pleased with my final outcome. I prefer the original photo to the black and white image but I wanted to provide a different perspective. Finally, my last shoot was classy and model like. I wanted to create almost arrogance with the models facial expressions to express confidence.
Expressing my admiration for fashion has been the highlight of this theme. Clothing symbolises inner self belief amongst individuals. I wanted to convey different people and present what they value in fashion.
Personally, The greatest feature of this theme was the photography I was given the opportunity to devise. The adequate lighting equipment we used was highly influential on my images. Being able to use models and objects to conger masterpieces was incredible. Furthermore, I have derived many new skills on photoshop that are quite complex to obtain. experimenting has been the most important factor during this project. Manipulating different variables in my photos has allowed me to create the best possible results for my images.
The photographers that I have researched have been vastly detrimental towards my development as a photographer. There understanding has fuelled me to make sure their ideas have been presented through my work. Willy Ronis loved the environmental influences of Paris. I tried to replicate it in the shoot I captured in Manchester. I worked with framing and composition to accumulate the best photo possible that expresses natural beauty. On the other hand, Horst P Horst used his awareness of fashion to create his masterpieces. This is the direction I planed on fully committing my time to during this theme. My first shoot was highly successful taking into account it was the beginning of my journey. The black and white edit came out exactly how I predicted it would look like. Regarding my second shoot, It needed thorough planning to manipulate light. However, I was really pleased with my final outcome. I prefer the original photo to the black and white image but I wanted to provide a different perspective. Finally, my last shoot was classy and model like. I wanted to create almost arrogance with the models facial expressions to express confidence.
Expressing my admiration for fashion has been the highlight of this theme. Clothing symbolises inner self belief amongst individuals. I wanted to convey different people and present what they value in fashion.
27/04/18
From this point, all my work has been done in exam time.
Photoshop process : Final Image - Saif Hajazi
To begin the 'dodge and burn' process, I created 2 new layers. I then placed the brush tool on soft light to draw on the models face.
I then precisely drew white and black lines to highlight certain features of his face.
In the first photo, the white light is disabled from his face. Whereas in the second photo, The white light is present. The light is scuttle but it outlines certain features. The areas that I highlighted the most were around his facial hair and around the glasses.
Before |
after |
In the first photo, The black light around his facial hair is disabled. However in the second photo, The black light details his facial hair and makes it more fuller.
Final Image
Photoshop process : final image - Anisa shah
For my second 'dodge and burn' attempt, I proceeded to follow the same process by using the soft light to draw light on the models face.
Yet again, I outlined features of her face by precisely drawing white and dark light using the brush tool.
In the first photo, The white light isn't present. However on the second photo, the white light is. The light consistently is scuttle to prevent over exposing the image. The light has predominantly been highlighted above her eyebrows, under her eyes and on the bridge of her nose.
In the first photo, the dark light is disabled. Whereas, in the second photo, The dark light has been adjusted on her face.
Final image
first cover attempt - Saif hajazi
I particularly didn't approve of my first attempt due to the lack of professionalism regarding the font choice and colour co-ordination. The fonts didn't stand out; it was too simplistic. The colour theme was random and not well thought out. The positioning of the writing was placed without a consistent order. The actual writing was also boring.
However, this formed the basis of how I wanted the image to look like.
Magazine final cover EDITING - saif hajazi
Final Image
Magazine cover editing - anisa shah
Final image
The text choices I made were gathered from research I made by looking into the most popular fashion magazine covers around the world. My aim was to keep the writing professional and enticing. To make it as realistic as I possibly could.
Regarding the fonts and colour choices, I wanted every piece of writing to co-ordinate using the same kind of colour theme. I purposefully chose the colour of the brand name to match with certain sub headings. 'the 100 club' was a name to suggest that there was a connection between the models I chose. It was to portray that they were part of a fashion group.