Yesterday we spent the day in the darkroom learning how to make photograms. These are made by placing objects directly on photographic paper and switching the light on and off to make the exposure. No film or camera is involved.
I decided to use the wonderful clematis heads that look all fluffy and woolly as they die on the branches, I added some lavender and scattered some seeds across the whole page to make it look like everything was blowing in the wind and this is the result.
I really enjoyed being in the darkroom learning this technique but I am finding the rest of the course hard as it is all very technical and maths based (I have never been able to do maths). The theory is that once you know the maths the passion will come but I am of the view that it is passion first, a bit of technical and then a bit of luck! what do you think?
I remember doing pictograms. So simple and yet, so neat.
ReplyDeleteAlas, I once had the most fabulous darkroom. Reluctantly, I sold it all.
How many times since then have I regretted getting rid of my darkroom.
I miss it so . . .
Very fun! I think the best creativeness comes from passion first. Lovely.
ReplyDeleteHappy Weekend to you Justine!
xo Catherine
I used to do sungrams with my students -- fun! Your photography course sounds challenging....I agree that passion and inspiration have to come first!
ReplyDeleteLove the photogram -- it feels like a strong wind is blowing across the page!
ReplyDeleteI agree with the passion thing -- it's the inital spark that makes you want to take the time to learn the technical stuff (which is really only interesting to the degree that it helps you to turn into reality the picture that you have in your head...).
I'm with you on the math part! However, this photogram is delightful!
ReplyDeleteThat looks like it would be fun to do.. I seem to think its a little of both.. You could know everything there is to know and not have the eye for a great photo..
ReplyDeleteI hope you have a happy weekend my friend..
Hugs, Linda
This is amazing - so beautiful.
ReplyDeleteWow! So cool! Sounds like fun. :)
ReplyDeleteI love that technique. You chose a great subject for it.
ReplyDeleteLou
I think this is phenomenal. A very cool process. But I'm with you on the math. If it involves numbers and figures I've lost interest. Sorry, passion first! And math is not even a factor in my passion. :)
ReplyDeleteThis is gorgeous!
ReplyDeleteThis looks stunning!
ReplyDeleteI think the image is beautiful. I love the willowy flowing nature of the seeds and flowers against the rigidity of the black and white.
ReplyDeleteI think that if you need the maths first, than that will work and if you need the passion first -as you seem to prefer-then that's ok too. I'm guessing it's about the journey and that the destination will be different for each travler.
That is so interesting! I've never had the opportunity to do something like that. Like you, I am not good at math an it usually scares me away. I need the passion first! Hang in there, good luck!
ReplyDeleteThis is a fun image Justine. I am not good at math either - I say shoot from the heart and trust that.
ReplyDeleteHang on in there with all the technical stuff, Justine! I'm with you - I'm intuitive rather than analytical, so I find all the technical stuff a) difficult to get my head around b) tricky to remember and c) boring. I think on the whole female photographers tend to be intuitive right-brainers and male photographers tend to be tech-obsessed left-brainers. We've probably got a lot to learn from each other!
ReplyDeleteI love the photogram. I think it's very clever how you've created the illusion of movement.
Justine, I love your honesty and your comment about passion is spot on. I agree. I actually think that it's the only thing that gives a hobby longevity. Ditto Helen's comments too - that has been my experience. Photography is a hobby I share with my hubby. He loves and understands light science (for example) and I can really learn alot from him in this area. But I'm slow on the uptake sometimes - I remember it took me ages just to process the simple maths behind intentionally overexposing film shots! I have to write stuff down and revisit it often before it sinks in. I don't get back here nearly as often as I want to but so enjoy your journey :)
ReplyDeletex
p.s Love the photogram!
ReplyDeleteOh..I remember doing pictograms. Love your final result and effect. And - yes - darkrooms are the best!!!
ReplyDeleteThis is wonderful Justine!
ReplyDeleteHang in there with the math! :-)
"Eyes see, camera captures soul." diana edlinger studios
ReplyDelete