Style & Technique

@jorgebscomm for @empowervmedia * T he scent of chemicals, the anticipation of developing a captured moment, the satisfaction of holding a tangible print – for generations, these were the hallmarks of the photographic experience. But in the relentless tide of digital technology, film photography finds itself at a crossroads. This article embarks on a critical exploration of the challenges faced by film enthusiasts in the digital age, offering practical insights and inspiration for navigating this complex landscape. Film photography documented journeys for generations 📷 stackexchange The Digital Onslaught The rise of digital photography couldn't be more dramatic. Once-prohibitively expensive DSLRs became affordable, smartphones sported ever-improving cameras, and social media fuelled an insatiable hunger for instant, shareable images. Film production plummeted, with Kodak, a titan of the industry, filing for bankruptcy in 2012 . Traditional photography shops dwindled, and film sto...

@jorgebscom for @empowervmedia * T he world of photography overflows with genres, each a distinct language whispering different stories. But beyond the surface of landscapes, portraits, and street scenes lies a deeper realm: photographic style.  It's the secret sauce, the artistic fingerprint that imbues an image with its singular voice. Today, we embark on a fascinating journey to dissect this elusive quality, using powerful theoretical frameworks as our guides. Photographic style is an artist's secret sauce   📷: JJ Harrison Semiotics: Decoding the Signs Imagine your photograph as a puzzle. Semiotics equips you with the tools to decipher its visual code. Roland Barthes ' concept of the "studium" and "punctum" becomes your decoder ring. The studium is the easily identifiable information – the setting, subject, and technical aspects. But it's the punctum, the unexpected detail that pierces your heart, that reveals the photographer's unique styl...

@jorgebscomm for @empowervmedia * I n the ever-evolving canvas of visual storytelling, photography stands as a formidable medium, weaving tales with each click. At its core, the magic lies in the meticulous fusion of style and technique. This article embarks on a journey through the captivating realm of narrative photography, unravelling the profound impact of stylistic choices and technical nuances on storytelling and emotional resonance. Agim Shala, 2 years old, passed through a fence at the refugee camp in Albania, Carol Guzy , 1999 📷: Cliff The Archives of Time Delving into the archives of photographic history unveils a rich tapestry of narrative evolution. From the pioneering works of early photographers like Julia Margaret Cameron , who painted poetic narratives with their lenses (Sandweiss, 2004) , to the ground-breaking narratives captured during the Great Depression , this historical overview illuminates the roots that ground contemporary practices. “Migrant agricultural wor...

@jorgebscomm for @empowervmedia * D aido Moriyama , a luminary in contemporary photography, has left an indelible mark on the subgenres of Urban Grit and Street Photography. Born in 1938 in Osaka, Japan, Moriyama's work is a visceral exploration of urban life, capturing its essence in a raw and unfiltered manner. This article delves into Moriyama's creative process, influences, and insights, drawing upon specific examples, scholarly research, and critical perspectives to provide a comprehensive analysis. Daido Moriyama, "Lips" (2000) Creative Process Moriyama's creative process is a spontaneous dance with the streets, reminiscent of a "stray dog" capturing the pulse of urban chaos. His iconic photograph, "Stray Dog" (1971), epitomizes this approach ( Baker 2012 ). Shot in high contrast, the image portrays a stray dog's silhouette against a desolate background. The blurred lines and dynamic composition enhance the sense of transience, echoi...

@jorgebscomm for @empowervmedia* W elcome to the realm where darkness becomes your canvas and light, your brush. Today we delve into the enthralling world of Light Painting , a subgenre where long exposures capture the dance of illuminated tools, transforming fleeting gestures into ethereal landscapes and abstract marvels. This article is your passport to a world beyond the ordinary, where technical mastery meets artistic vision, and every stroke of light tells a story. Stockholm, Sweden skyline 📷: chas B Unveiling the Technical Symphony Light painting requires a well-rehearsed orchestra of elements. Let's grab our sturdy tripods and cameras prepped for long exposures (aim for 10-30 seconds to start). Our light sources become versatile musicians, from playful flashlights with different beam angles to LED tools that bend light like liquid gold. Experiment with colours, textures, and even homemade tools like steel wool dipped in embers. Shutter speeds  act as the conductor's b...