The Ones I Like List of 2006 – A Countdown [#4]
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(If you click on the photo, you can see a larger-sized, more detailed version of the image.)
Abby – The most recently-taken photo in my top ten list, Abby represents a concept of photography that had for the most part eluded me up until this photo was snapped — the concept of direction. Besides a few crafted photos here and there, my work has always been about observation. It’s the squirrel peeking out from behind the tree, the sunrise breaking over still water, the “do you mind if I take your photo?”…”not at all!”…*smile*….*click*. It’s nothing more involved than that.
This photo was different. This photo was designed (albeit in a flash!) entirely by me. I knew where I wanted to go visually, and then I directed the model, Abby, to help me get there. It was specific. “Look over your right shoulder as if you are looking back at someone chasing you.” “Raise your chin.” “Turn your torso/shoulders a bit towards me.” It was slightly awkward for me, the whole direction thing, but Abby was a pro — fearless, open to instruction, and so, so very able to communicate with the lens. She made it all seem easy.
While I never plan to stray too far from the role of observer in my photography, I do hope to build on this experience in 2007 and further develop my studio and commercial photography skills.
A few other portraits that came close to making the list: George, Our Wonderful Future… , and Jane Austin Was Here.
