WHAT IS DISTORTION?
Distortion is a warping or transformation of an object and its surrounding area that differs significantly from what the object would look like with a normal focal length. Distortion can be interpreted through people and objects. With distortion of people you can Photoshop their faces by manipulating their features and creating an uncanny feel to images and viewers. However, distortion with objects, you can manipulate by adding other objects to your piece or cutting and cropping different items.
WATER DISTORTION
FACIAL DISTORTION
MIRROR DISTORTION
STATEMENT OF INTENT
Distortion photography manipulates the viewers take on the photographers work as it can create different train thoughts. My aim is to research different distortion photographers and take a key idea from their work and alter it for my own. For my initial research, I shall research a variety of themes and techniques such as water and mirror distortion. I will take a trip around Manchester however I do plan to have my shoots taken in an interior setting as I will not have to be disrupted by the constant change of lighting and civilians passing by. I do plan to use photo shop and document my process and my thought process. The photographers I plan to research are, Laurence Demaison and Brno Del Zou. I do plan to use a mirror as I could manipulate the outcome by cropping the mirror or model and replacing it in the opposite direction.
I aim to produce portraits that are elegant, beautiful, mysterious and sometimes strange. To show development, I must be able to purvey photos in a high quality standard. To begin my journey, I will consider a plan containing my key ideas such as what facial feature I would to cover with the mirror. I will then begin my in depth research on my artist research and give a detailed analysis as I would like to come up with multiple ideas for my final outcomes.
For my shoots, I plan to use a DSLR camera and with a tripod so my portrait images have sharp leading lines. I will constantly analyse my own work and document my process leading towards the final outcome. For my first shoot, I do plan it to be a black and white image as my overview of distortion research did contain many black and white images. On the other hand, I will have a final outcome in colour possibly a feature in an image. I plan to have 4 or 5 shoots with 5 outcomes overall.
I aim to produce portraits that are elegant, beautiful, mysterious and sometimes strange. To show development, I must be able to purvey photos in a high quality standard. To begin my journey, I will consider a plan containing my key ideas such as what facial feature I would to cover with the mirror. I will then begin my in depth research on my artist research and give a detailed analysis as I would like to come up with multiple ideas for my final outcomes.
For my shoots, I plan to use a DSLR camera and with a tripod so my portrait images have sharp leading lines. I will constantly analyse my own work and document my process leading towards the final outcome. For my first shoot, I do plan it to be a black and white image as my overview of distortion research did contain many black and white images. On the other hand, I will have a final outcome in colour possibly a feature in an image. I plan to have 4 or 5 shoots with 5 outcomes overall.
PLAN
ARTIST RESEARCH
Laurence Demaison
I like Laurence Demaison's take on distortion since it is not using photo shop to manipulate the models face, in fact uses water. The models face being neutral and the image being black and white does create a serious but professional look. The image being taken in an interior setting does balance the good and the bad, the good being that you have a more control with the lighting. However, the studio light can leave a yellow tint to the images. I believe Demaison had taken her shoots using a DSLR camera and used a tripod for a more controlled and sharp outcome. I like how this photographer had taken the images cutting off half the body only keeping the top half. I am also fond of the background being a professional and sleek black merging into the dark misty coloured eyes and clothes.
Demaison's work has a direct view on to the model for a more serious take on distortion. In the first image, the water is on a rule of third leading and boxing off the models face. The waters brim is also on a rule of third also boxing the model in. The studio lighting seems to above the model creating smooth shadows. I believe that the depth of field is was taken at an f8 giving smooth lines merging itself and the water. I purvey that Demaison had taken these images with a slow shutter speed, making the photos blurrier creating smoother lines.
I would use key ideas from Demaison's work such as my final outcomes being black and white, the water and the model having a neutral face. However, I would like to extend my ideas by not only the models face being neutral but also some outcomes with the model screaming or faced to the side.
Overall, I do like Laurence Demaison's work. I like the professional look with the black and white but I would have liked to see some other outcomes potentially with the model laying in the water or with the model having emotion.
Demaison's work has a direct view on to the model for a more serious take on distortion. In the first image, the water is on a rule of third leading and boxing off the models face. The waters brim is also on a rule of third also boxing the model in. The studio lighting seems to above the model creating smooth shadows. I believe that the depth of field is was taken at an f8 giving smooth lines merging itself and the water. I purvey that Demaison had taken these images with a slow shutter speed, making the photos blurrier creating smoother lines.
I would use key ideas from Demaison's work such as my final outcomes being black and white, the water and the model having a neutral face. However, I would like to extend my ideas by not only the models face being neutral but also some outcomes with the model screaming or faced to the side.
Overall, I do like Laurence Demaison's work. I like the professional look with the black and white but I would have liked to see some other outcomes potentially with the model laying in the water or with the model having emotion.
Paul Apal'kin
I like Paul Apal'kin's work with mirrors because it is black and white which was cleverly used to create a professional feel to his final pieces. I believe his work was taken in an interior setting as it doesn't get affected by the natural lighting and civilians walking by. The photographer has taken two separate images and had used photo shop to manipulate the viewers eyes. The shattered mirror could symbolise how the photographer is feeling as most photographers do portray their feelings on to their work. The use of a model is important for distortion photography as you could distort the facial features or body. Using a plain background does create a sleek and makes the viewer focus more on the model.
Apal'kin's work has a direct view on to the model. The shots were taken with a studio lighting as it can be more controlled than natural lighting. Using studio lighting is perfect to use as you can place it anywhere and make shadows to create a contrast between light and dark. However, I do believe the final shots does have a soft affect left by the studio lighting. Arms and hands can create leading lines which this photographer used to make the mirror the focus point. The mirror is on a rule of third which catches the viewers attention further. I believe that Apal'kin's work is usually taken with a large depth of field. I purvey that the photographer did not use a tripod and had taken this image with an f stop of 8. The photo was taken at a middle point, only revealing the upper half.
I do believe that I could use Paul Apal'kin's work in my own; I could do this by hammering a mirror and place it in front of a models face, potentially eyes. I would like to experiment with placing the mirror in front of the models mouth and photo-shopping different colours and leaving the rest of the image black and white. As this photographers work is distorted, it fits my theme of distortion because there are multiple ways of carrying out shoots for this theme.
I do like his work because they all have models in the center ruling of the point of rule of thirds. The black and white images does leave a professional feel to the viewer and the images itself. However, I do not like how the photographer has only put the mirror on the models eyes, I feel that they should have experimented and try to put the mirror over the persons mouth and could have left the colour in the mirror.
Apal'kin's work has a direct view on to the model. The shots were taken with a studio lighting as it can be more controlled than natural lighting. Using studio lighting is perfect to use as you can place it anywhere and make shadows to create a contrast between light and dark. However, I do believe the final shots does have a soft affect left by the studio lighting. Arms and hands can create leading lines which this photographer used to make the mirror the focus point. The mirror is on a rule of third which catches the viewers attention further. I believe that Apal'kin's work is usually taken with a large depth of field. I purvey that the photographer did not use a tripod and had taken this image with an f stop of 8. The photo was taken at a middle point, only revealing the upper half.
I do believe that I could use Paul Apal'kin's work in my own; I could do this by hammering a mirror and place it in front of a models face, potentially eyes. I would like to experiment with placing the mirror in front of the models mouth and photo-shopping different colours and leaving the rest of the image black and white. As this photographers work is distorted, it fits my theme of distortion because there are multiple ways of carrying out shoots for this theme.
I do like his work because they all have models in the center ruling of the point of rule of thirds. The black and white images does leave a professional feel to the viewer and the images itself. However, I do not like how the photographer has only put the mirror on the models eyes, I feel that they should have experimented and try to put the mirror over the persons mouth and could have left the colour in the mirror.
Brno Del Zou
Brno Del Zou is a photographer who takes distortion photography to another level. By not only taking the perfectly exposed and professionally taken images, Zou has taken photography to a further outcome by printing, cutting and distorting these models faces. However, from a far these masterpieces could potentially look normal to the naked eye but as you come further in, you almost feel the discomfort on the models faces by the neutral grins portraying through the last outcome.
By the photographer not taking just one front view of the model, Zou had also taken multiple angles which I am fond of and when making a 'new face' it seems more creepy and alarming. Zou had stuck the 'new face' on a plain white wall which contrasts with the deep dark colours of their hair. I purvey that the photographer had taken these images in an interior setting. Being in an interior setting gives an advantage of controlling the studio light as when taking your shoots outdoors, the natural lighting could change. I believe that Zou had used a DSLR camera with a tripod so that taking the images with a fast shutter speed, the outcomes will not be blurred and making the lines sharper giving strong leading lines by the hair boxing off the faces. The shadows from the paper also boxed off the model making the image all together more segregated. The models not being on any of the rule of thirds does cancel out the concept of rule of thirds however it does make it more eye catching to the viewer as it is in the middle.
Overall, I do like Brno Del Zou work because it is black and white making the whole outcome look professional. I am also fond of the cut out affect that Zou successfully achieved, I will use this idea as I want to further my ideas.
By the photographer not taking just one front view of the model, Zou had also taken multiple angles which I am fond of and when making a 'new face' it seems more creepy and alarming. Zou had stuck the 'new face' on a plain white wall which contrasts with the deep dark colours of their hair. I purvey that the photographer had taken these images in an interior setting. Being in an interior setting gives an advantage of controlling the studio light as when taking your shoots outdoors, the natural lighting could change. I believe that Zou had used a DSLR camera with a tripod so that taking the images with a fast shutter speed, the outcomes will not be blurred and making the lines sharper giving strong leading lines by the hair boxing off the faces. The shadows from the paper also boxed off the model making the image all together more segregated. The models not being on any of the rule of thirds does cancel out the concept of rule of thirds however it does make it more eye catching to the viewer as it is in the middle.
Overall, I do like Brno Del Zou work because it is black and white making the whole outcome look professional. I am also fond of the cut out affect that Zou successfully achieved, I will use this idea as I want to further my ideas.
Sakir Yildirim
Sakir Yildirim is a photographer who uses photo shop to manipulate their work. Yildirim takes two images and uses the 'liquify' tool in photo shop to merge the two people together which I like. He has also cut out strips of the image and replacing it oppositely. The solid contrast of colours is intentionally used to catch the viewers eyes. The models are on a rule of thirds however blends towards each other filling the middle of the image. All of Yildirims work are taken in an exterior setting using the natural lighting, not leaving a yellow tint to the outcomes.
As my other artist research, the outcomes where photo shopped black and white where as Yildirim is different by leaving colour which I do like. Most of Yildirims work is placing the models in front of bushes possibly to have that contrast between the the green and yellow or red. This photographer does also have his models full body in frame; framing the model in and feeling trapped as over 50% of professional characters portray their feelings and thoughts into their work.
I consider that Yildirim's work was taken at a f22 as the models are in focus with the fast shutter speed but also have sharp lines which contrasts with the merging of the two models. The pathway is on a rule of third. I have noticed that the elongated bodies images, the feet are separated and the models are faced sideways, which I would like to apply to my work.
As my other artist research, the outcomes where photo shopped black and white where as Yildirim is different by leaving colour which I do like. Most of Yildirims work is placing the models in front of bushes possibly to have that contrast between the the green and yellow or red. This photographer does also have his models full body in frame; framing the model in and feeling trapped as over 50% of professional characters portray their feelings and thoughts into their work.
I consider that Yildirim's work was taken at a f22 as the models are in focus with the fast shutter speed but also have sharp lines which contrasts with the merging of the two models. The pathway is on a rule of third. I have noticed that the elongated bodies images, the feet are separated and the models are faced sideways, which I would like to apply to my work.
https://www.instagram.com/bisso97120/?hl=en
I like Bisso's work because he took 'distortion' to another level by using objects instead of faces. The mirror being cracked aligns with the shoes as the shoes is the center point directing the viewers eyes to the middle. Contrast pf colour is issued between the white shoes, skin and black jeans. The legs are on a rule of third creating leading lines. The lines from the cracked mirror cutting of half the image is is eye catching to the viewer. The small depth of field blurs out the background only and heightens the persons legs and mirror. I believe that this image was taken on a DSLR camera on a fast shutter speed to get the person stood still and clear. This image was taken from a front eye level view; I believe the photographer has done this to also include the background and the leading lines that it holds itself. I think that it is uncanny how us as viewers are unable to identify the shoes reflection in the broken mirror clearly.
The second image is taken from a birds eye view; displaying the shoes and only the cracked mirror. These images being taken outdoors is tricky however this photographer pulls it off by using the only source of light he has correctly. The small depth of field blurs out the mirror only presenting the lower half of the leg and shoes crystal clear. I believe I can use Bisso's main conception on distortion into my own work, by using a cracked mirror and Nike trainers but instead of a white pair, I will make my model wear black trainers with white socks for a contrast of colour. I am also fond the natural soft shadows made by the left shoes reflected on to the right.
I believe that my other artist research I have previously researched turns their outcomes to black and white however I would like to leave this shoot neutral with a pop of colour. I will photo shop my images by enhancing the colour and darken necessary areas which I believe is linking to the photographer work.
The second image is taken from a birds eye view; displaying the shoes and only the cracked mirror. These images being taken outdoors is tricky however this photographer pulls it off by using the only source of light he has correctly. The small depth of field blurs out the mirror only presenting the lower half of the leg and shoes crystal clear. I believe I can use Bisso's main conception on distortion into my own work, by using a cracked mirror and Nike trainers but instead of a white pair, I will make my model wear black trainers with white socks for a contrast of colour. I am also fond the natural soft shadows made by the left shoes reflected on to the right.
I believe that my other artist research I have previously researched turns their outcomes to black and white however I would like to leave this shoot neutral with a pop of colour. I will photo shop my images by enhancing the colour and darken necessary areas which I believe is linking to the photographer work.
FIRST PHOTO SHOOT
PLAN
For my first shoot, I am going to go to a park where the trees are hovering over and have my model standing with a hexagon shaped mirror placed over their face, so I am able to photo shop the image. I will also take in consideration the camera techniques such as depth of field and rule of thirds. I will take my images in 3 different settings as I then have a variety of images to choose from when manipulating the outcomes. I will use a DSLR camera as I would like my outcomes to be sharp and clear whereas phone cameras will not pick up such details. My images will be taken vertically and horizontally as I want as many different outcomes possible. This shoot will be taken outdoors so I am able to use and experiment with natural lighting.
SET UP
For my first shoot, I used a DSLR camera on a tripod. I used a tripod because I wanted my final images to not be blurry and I wanted my shutter speed and depth of field to be controlled. I aimed to have the hexagon shaped mirror to be covering the models face and scarf but with their hands over the mirror so for when I photo shop my outcomes, it will seem uncanny. I made the model wear dark tones but with a contrast of white stripes so it gives the viewer an eye catcher. I photographed this shoot in Seymour Park because I liked the trees hovering over the model but on the other side the contrast between green and red seemed eye catching. However, I do plan to take images in three different settings so I have a range of images to manipulate.
BESTI like this image because the model is in the center which rules out rule of thirds but the top and bottom of the bushes are on the rule of thirds which doesn't cancel out the concept entirely. I am fond of the final image having a deep depth of field because it seems mysterious. This image was taken on a DSLR camera with an f stop of 6.0. The image was taken with a fast shutter speed so I could capture the sharp edges of the leaves. I took the image outdoors because I wanted to use natural lighting. Once I start manipulating this image, I will crop out the corners so it is narrower because I do not like how small the model looks.
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WORSTI do not like this image because of the slow shutter speed which leaves the image blurry when I intended to keep the sharp lines of the mirror and the trees. I do not like how the model is far away from the camera. There is no leading lines that directs the viewers eyes to the model, rather than the trees. I believe that the DSLR camera I took these images on, was on a large depth of field resulting the final images to be a lot lighter than how I intended.
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DEVELOPING MY WORK
SECOND ATTEMPT
I do like the outcome of the model holding the mirror in front of her face making the final outcome seem as if there is nothing there and goes through her face. For my second attempt at manipulating shoot one images. I will be taking a different picture and manipulating the outcome by replacing the reflection in the mirror with a picture of the model facing backwards.
LINKING MY IDEAS
For my first shoot, I was pleased by the outcomes and how I manipulated the images. I was inspired by Paul Apal'kin's work; using a mirror and making it seem as if you can see through it. However, I am going to change my shoot ideas so it is not the same as I would like to copy my other photographers ideas. For my second shoot I plan to look at Brno Del Zou's work for inspiration.
SECOND PHOTO SHOOT
PLAN
As for my second shoot, I am going to take portrait images of a male because I would like to have facial hair on my model as it will align with my photographers work, Brno Del Zou. During this shoot, I will make my model face in different directions so when I photo shop and print out my images, I will have my model looking distorted and uncanny. For my portraits, I plan for my model to have a neutral facial expression. I plan to use a DSLR camera without the flash because I believe Zou has not used the flash in his images either, whereas phone cameras are not stable nor clear. My portrait images will only include the models shoulders and above as I will only be using the face for my final outcomes. I will take this shoot indoors as I am able to control the lighting and create shadows where it is needed. My background will have a white wall as it will contrast with the colour of the models bright blue shirt. I will take portrait images horizontal and vertical as I would like to try out different views to expand my ideas. After my shoot, I will print the best images and manipulate the images to become uncanny and strange to the bare eye and I will also manipulate the images in photo shoot to view all my possible outcomes. For my second shoot, I will take three separate mini shoots. I will also take my images indoors as I have better control over the lighting and I will also take in consideration the camera techniques such as depth of field and rule of thirds.
PORTRAIT 1
BESTI like this image because the model is facing in a diagonal direction so I am able to get all facial features in one image. I also am fond of how the image has just cut of the models shoulders, I did this it resembles my photographers work. I chose this model because he has facial hair and when photo-shopping this image it is then more obvious it is distorted. The model being placed in the middle cancels out the point of rule of thirds. I used a tripod when taking this image because I wanted my model to have sharp edges which I believe I achieved. This image was taken at an f stop of 6.0. I took this image from a direct eye level view. The models shoulders create leading lines. I think that this image has a large depth of field resulting in the background being in focus, however I do not see this as a problem as the main focus is model himself.
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WORSTI feel as if this is the worst image I have taken for my second shoot portrait 1 as I feel the model is too close to the camera, resulting in his beard being cropped out, which is difficult to photo shop. I think that because I did not use a tripod for this image, the image came out blurry which I was not hoping for. I also do not like how my model has no expression. There are no leading lines directing to the models face as most of this top is cropped out. I believe that the DSLR camera I took these images on, was on a large depth of field resulting the final images to be a lot lighter than how I intended.
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DEVELOPING MY WORK
SECOND ATTEMPT
For my second attempt with developing my work, I have decided that instead of manipulating the same image in photo shop, I will print out the images, cut them into different size pieces and put them together. This process will achieve a similar look to the photographer's work I have previously looked at.
LINKING MY IDEAS
I like how this shoot has turned out because it had went straight to plan. I like how I had manipulated the images in photo shop but also printed the photos out and attempted to distort the models face. I was inspired by Brno Del Zou's work as I liked how he had not only had the idea of distorting someones face but actually printing out the images and taking photography to another level. However, I plan to manipulate the images in a different way possibly with the image cut all in the shape and size such as the image on my mood bored of facial distortion.
PORTRAIT 2
BESTI used a tripod when taking this image because I wanted my model to have sharp edges which I believe I achieved. I took this image from a direct eye level view. I took this image on flash as I like how the colours are enhanced. This image was taken at an f stop of 6.0. The models shoulders create leading lines. I think that this image has a large depth of field resulting in the background being in focus, however I do not see this as a problem as the main focus is model himself.
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WORSTI believe this is the worst image out of this shoot as the model is not filling the full image. Also the image is blurry because I had not taken this shoot with a tripod. I took this image from a direct eye level view. The image is taken at an awkward angle leaving the model appearing unorganised and also fuzzy. I believe that the DSLR camera I took these images on, was on a large depth of field resulting the final images to be a lot lighter than how I intended. I believe this image was taken on a f stop of 6.0.
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DEVELOPING MY WORK
LINKING MY IDEAS
I like the outcome I have produced from my second portrait as I had manipulated the image differently and took inspiration from my mood board. I will now do one more portrait images so that I have enough facial distortion outcomes. I will manipulate these images in a different manner so I have a variety.
PORTRAIT 3
BESTI like this image as the model is facing forwards so for when I photo shop this image it will be easier as the image is symmetrical. The image focusing on the models face creates a more serious tone to the picture. The models hair and eye brows are on a rule of thirds however the model herself is in the center of the image. I like how I placed the model against a red background because it complements with the models hair. The models hair creates leading lines for the viewer to the models face. However, I plan to photo shop the red background out as I would prefer to have a white backdrop. I used a tripod when taking this image because I wanted my model to have sharp edges which I believe I achieved. I took this image on flash as I like how the colours are enhanced. This image was taken at an f stop of 6.0. I took this image from a direct eye level view.
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WORSTI do not like this image as the model seems to not be focused or have a straight face. The models hair is everywhere not creating any leading lines for the viewer. I also do not like how the models badges are in the image as it creates a distraction and the bright colours grabs the viewers attention. The camera is placed further than how I intended. I believe that the DSLR camera I took these images on, was on a large depth of field resulting the final images to be a lot lighter than how I intended. I believe this image was taken on a f stop of 6.0. I took this image from a direct eye level view. I do not plan to use this image when developing my work as I believe there are better images I have taken.
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DEVELOPING MY WORK
SECOND ATTEMPT
For my second attempt, I have decided to change my idea of my final outcome and keep it more sleek as it gives me a variety for my exam. I will proceed on using photo shop to develop my work.
LINKING MY IDEAS
I like this shoot overall as I had sectioned off this shoot into three separate mini shoots as I am able to incorporate my different ideas. I believe I would like to attempt different areas of distortion such as object distortion. I have previously looked and analysed Bisso's work so I am able to achieve similar outcomes for my final outcome.
THIRD PHOTO SHOOT
PLAN
For my third exam shoot, I plan on using my knowledge of Bisso's work with shoes and cracked mirrors instead of keep using people and faces. I would like to use a cracked mirror and sample Bisso's work into my own as I believe distortion is not only portrayed through faces but also objects. I will be using a DSLR camera on 'TV' to capture the fast movements of water from the river I also plan to visit. I will be travelling into Deansgate, Manchester, where I believe that the old and left behind feeling creates an effect on the image itself but also contrasts with the theme of this shoot. To extend my ideas, I will take images around a river to catch reflections but also with a cracked mirror possibly behind a brick wall. Using a tripod will be beneficial as I would like my images to come out sharp. I will also take in consideration the camera techniques such as depth of field and rule of thirds.
SET UP
For my third photo shoot, I used a DSLR camera without a tripod. I did not use a tripod because I believe the images would come out the same, as it would with a tripod, my shutter speed and depth of field was also controlled. I aimed to have the model stood on a bench so I was able to get images of the circle design from the bench onto my camera as I thought that would be uncanny as if I was able to zoom in no one would know where this shoot was shot. I made the model wear white trainers but with a contrast of the black trousers so it gives the viewer an eye catcher. I photographed this shoot in my school because I was fond of the bench design. I made my model bend her leg so the back of the shoe was facing up so I could get a clear shot of the shoe placed correctly on the cracked mirror.
BESTI like this image because the shoe is on the cracked mirror and seems as if the model had broken it. I like how the mirror is placed on the bench with holes as the sides of the bench are on the rule of thirds making it eye catching to the viewer. The models white shoes are also an eye catcher as the rest of the image are darker toned colours. This image was taken with a DSLR camera on manual, I took this image on manual as I have more control with the settings such as the focus and depth of field. I believe this image has the perfect amount of sun light as it has a deep depth of field, making the image not have any light reflected into the camera. This image was taken with a fast shutter speed as the model kept moving and the shoe isn't blurry. I also like the contrast of colours between the models shoes, skin and trousers.
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WORSTI believe this is the worst image as the shoe is not in shot, making it more difficult for me to manipulate the image. The towel being in the shot and being the same colour as the shoes, makes the shoe not the subject and not eye catching. The image is over exposed not displaying every detail of the shoe in the shot. I am also not fond of half of the image having a shadow and the rest being clear. I do not like that you are unable to see the models skin, as the artist I had taken inspiration off, Bisso, has taken the shot with the models skin being seen. If I were able to redo this shoot, I would remove the towel and take a closer shot with a fast shutter speed so everything is sharp and clear. I would take another set of images at a different angle so my work correlates with the photographer I had taken inspiration from.
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DEVELOPING MY WORK
LINKING MY IDEAS
Overall, I like the idea of distorting objects such as shoes. However, I preferred working with models faces and changing the way they look as there were better outcomes and multitudes of ways to distort them. So for my next shoot, I will go back to taking professional images of two models, for variety, and distorting their faces with water.
FOURTH PHOTO SHOOT
PLAN
As for my fourth shoot, I will take my strengths of Laurence Demaison's work and apply them for my fourth photo shoot. I plan to use one model facing forwards and having a neutral facial expression as I would like to manipulate it in photo shop by making it black and white. I will then print out the images and place it in a fish tank and place water over the image of the model to make the viewer assume that the model is actually under water. However, to develop my ideas I do believe I should try and get my model to lay in water with their eyes open and no facial expressions. I will use a DSLR camera and will be using a tripod so my images can have a fast shutter speed leaving the model having strong leading lines. I will also take in consideration the camera techniques such as depth of field and rule of thirds. For my fourth shoot, I will take my photos indoors as I will like to have control over my lighting in front of a black background.
SET UP
For my set up, I have used a DSLR camera on manual. I used a tripod because I wanted my final images to not be blurry and I wanted my shutter speed and depth of field to be controlled. I aimed to have the model facing directly towards the camera as it correlates to my artist research. I made the model wear dark tones but with a contrast of white so it gives the viewer an eye catcher. I photographed this shoot indoors as I like to be able to control my surroundings and lighting. However, I do plan to take images of two people so I have a range of images to manipulate and to also see if there is a difference in the outcomes.
BESTI like this image as it correlates with my artist research, Laurence Demaison. My approach to this shoot was to take a vertical portrait image, print it out and place under a flat bottom fish tank so that I am able to pour water into the tank and distorting the models face. The models cheeks create leading lines towards the center of the image. I am fond of the background being black so that if I wish to manipulate the image in photo shop it will then be easier, but the background being black also creates a more serious tone for the image as well as the models face having a neutral facial expression. The image was taken with a deep depth of field thus creating a more dour feeling. Having the shoot being indoors, I was able to control the lighting and using a soft box to create soft shadows and a reflector to make the image brighter. I believe the model is in the center ruling out any chance of being on a rule of third, however their eyes are on the top vertical line.
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WORSTI do not like this image as the model is wearing dark colours, and seems to be merging in with the background. The models eyes are closed where I would have preferred them to be open so for the final outcome it seems as if the model has his eyes open under water. I believe that the Nike logo seems to be a focal point and is potentially a distraction. I would rather have had the model being faced straight and symmetrical. I did not use a reflector for this image as I was testing to see which outcome I had preferred. The image was taken with a fast shutter speed creating sharp lines. If I were to redo this shoot, I would have a different colour possibly a lighter colour such as grey for this model and it seems the model is seeping into the background.
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DEVELOPING MY WORK
LINKING MY IDEAS
I like the outcomes I have produced from my fourth shoot. I like how I have not photo shopped the images and instead have gone out in my own time about bought a fish tank to use for a base when pouring water over the image so it is distorted. I also like how the image is not clear because it is more realistic as when you are underwater, you can not see a crystal clear image. However, now I believe I should move on and create different outcomes with the topic idea of distortion and use my artist research for inspiration and guidance. My inspiration for my fifth shoot is Sakir Yildirim, as I like his take on distortion as it is not typical and have taken his work to another level as he has taken into consideration every tip about taking the perfect image.
FIFTH PHOTO SHOOT
PLAN
For my fifth photo shoot, I will visit Manchester and take images inspired by the photographer I have come across, Sakir Yildirim. I am fond of his work because it is not the typical type of distortion with faces but in fact with the full body. Yildirim uses photo shop to achieve his outcomes which is what I plan to do. I will use a DSLR camera because I will need to capture the sharp edges of the body when walking, I will take these images in Manchester possibly behind a coloured wall or a bricked wall and make the model wear bright colours to create a contrast between the model and the background. I will also take in consideration the camera techniques such as depth of field and rule of thirds. I will use a tripod because I plan to have my images clear and well defined. To further my ideas, I will take images on bridges and in front of bushes.
SET UP
For my set up, I had used a DSLR camera on manual as I am able to control how my images look. I had also used a tripod so that the outcomes would not come out blurry or fuzzy. I made my model wear a red jacket with a white stripe on the arm so it contrasts in colour but also the background. I had done this so the white stripe is on the rule of thirds but also eye catching to the viewer.
BESTI like this image because the model is wearing red with a pop of white on her arm. The white line is on a rule of third. I believe the model walking correlates with the photographer I have looked at as their work is also a model walking. I had used a tripod with a fast shutter speed so the image would not come out blurry. I I like the contrast of white and red bricks as it is eye catching to the viewer. This image has a large depth of field making everything in shot, in focus. When I manipulate this image, I will a use similar image and merge the body together.
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WORSTI do not like this image as I do not like the set up and background. I believe the background is plain and the model is too far away from the camera to be in focus. As there is no leading lines, it is not eye catching to the viewer. The camera did not take the image horizontally as it is slanted and does not look professional. I would have preferred the model to be closer to the camera
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DEVELOPING MY WORK
FINAL OUTCOMES
For my exam, I plan to photo shop the images of the person walking so I can merge the two images together as it relates to my artist research of Sakir Yildirims take on distortion. For my final outcomes, I believe instead of scattering my final outcomes on my page, I will instead take inspiration from these images and frame my work while aligning it the way I prefer. However, I will keep my images in colour as the different colours will stand out. As I have nine final outcomes, I will buy nine black edged frames in different sizes. I believe this will make my work more meaningful and classy. I may add writing, possibly the word 'distortion' or a quote. At the end of this component, I will write up my evaluation containing what I did and why I had done this, writing in full detail and reflecting on my work overall.
EVALUATION
Overall, I chose the exam question human figure but dived in deeper by choosing the theme of 'distortion'. I have taken five shoots but three mini shoots in one. I liked my theme because it allowed me to improve my photo shop skills as it is computer based. However, I had taken my initiative and researched five photographers to take inspiration from and expand my ideas. When looking at the photographer, Brno Del Zou; I had noticed that they had printed out their images and manipulated it in person, possibly so they have a clear idea of what they wanted to achieve. I have taken this idea and was inspired by their work and their take on distortion. So I was encouraged to take on the challenge too.
I have enjoyed editing my images as I was able to explore new techniques and improve my skills. The most interesting thing I have found upon doing my exam, that it is better to section off which will result in making everything clear and will it will show my thought process clearer. While, photo-shopping my outcomes, I have learnt new techniques such as using the 'liquify' tool and the 'clone stamp' tool. I had went home and practiced developing my work and did test tries. If I was able to redo this exam, I would have kept the concept of portrait one but would have manipulated it further by not making the outcome orange or just making it black and white.
Throughout my project, I have researched five photographers who all took different directions to this theme. The first photographer I had looked at was Laurence Demaison; I had looked at this photographer because instead of photo-shopping the image in photo shop they used water to manipulate the image. The second photographer I had looked at was Paul Apal'kin as I liked the way they used broken mirrors to wield as a base to photo-shop over it. I had researched Brno Del Zou as my third photographer because their take on distortion and how they printed out their images and created a new and unique way at approaching this style of photography. For my fourth artist research, I was inspired by Sakir Yildirim because they merged the person together to make it seem as if they took the image with a long shutter speed, however was actually achieved through photo-shop. For my fifth and final artist research, I had looked at Bisso's work because I was fond by how they did not take portrait images but instead used shoes and a cracked mirror. I believe I have at least came out with one similar outcome for each photographer I have looked at and was influenced by their work because I have taken certain techniques from their work and applied them to my own such as photo shop skills but also remembering to use a tripod but also basics such as applying the rule of thirds to my own work.
I believe that the most successful part of my project was finalising my outcomes and placing them in frames and hanging them on a wall with a meaningful quote because it is more meaningful and it is a better option than just scattering my images on my page. I did not encounter any problems with this project as I was able to access the internet and expand my knowledge on photo-shop. I have learnt overall that the more artist research you do, the more you learn and will learn different techniques. However not only photo-shop or basic techniques but you will also learn to be considerate with where you place you model and the surroundings and also the colour of clothing the model is wearing is very important.
I have enjoyed editing my images as I was able to explore new techniques and improve my skills. The most interesting thing I have found upon doing my exam, that it is better to section off which will result in making everything clear and will it will show my thought process clearer. While, photo-shopping my outcomes, I have learnt new techniques such as using the 'liquify' tool and the 'clone stamp' tool. I had went home and practiced developing my work and did test tries. If I was able to redo this exam, I would have kept the concept of portrait one but would have manipulated it further by not making the outcome orange or just making it black and white.
Throughout my project, I have researched five photographers who all took different directions to this theme. The first photographer I had looked at was Laurence Demaison; I had looked at this photographer because instead of photo-shopping the image in photo shop they used water to manipulate the image. The second photographer I had looked at was Paul Apal'kin as I liked the way they used broken mirrors to wield as a base to photo-shop over it. I had researched Brno Del Zou as my third photographer because their take on distortion and how they printed out their images and created a new and unique way at approaching this style of photography. For my fourth artist research, I was inspired by Sakir Yildirim because they merged the person together to make it seem as if they took the image with a long shutter speed, however was actually achieved through photo-shop. For my fifth and final artist research, I had looked at Bisso's work because I was fond by how they did not take portrait images but instead used shoes and a cracked mirror. I believe I have at least came out with one similar outcome for each photographer I have looked at and was influenced by their work because I have taken certain techniques from their work and applied them to my own such as photo shop skills but also remembering to use a tripod but also basics such as applying the rule of thirds to my own work.
I believe that the most successful part of my project was finalising my outcomes and placing them in frames and hanging them on a wall with a meaningful quote because it is more meaningful and it is a better option than just scattering my images on my page. I did not encounter any problems with this project as I was able to access the internet and expand my knowledge on photo-shop. I have learnt overall that the more artist research you do, the more you learn and will learn different techniques. However not only photo-shop or basic techniques but you will also learn to be considerate with where you place you model and the surroundings and also the colour of clothing the model is wearing is very important.
27/04/2018
From this point all my work is done in exam time
SECOND PHOTO SHOOT - PORTRAIT 1 - THIRD OUTCOME
Personally, I like this photo-shop because it is extremely distorted and is different from what I have previously done. It correlates with the photographer I have looked at; however I believe this is easier to accomplish as it is manipulated through photo-shop. I have gained confidence to make the image more distorted as it was simple before.
SECOND PHOTO SHOOT - PORTRAIT 2 - SECOND OUTCOME
I like this photo-shop because the model has been duplicated and sliced just as the image from my facial distortion set of images. I like this outcome mostly because it is not like any photographers work I have looked at before. The contrast of the black clothing and the white wall is rather eye catching. Using the same image twice in one outcome creates more of a distorted feel.
FOURTH PHOTO SHOOT - SECOND OUTCOME
I prefer this outcome from the first I had previously done. I like this one because you can clearly see the water bubbles and see the distorted face which correlates with the photographer I had looked at for inspiration. I had photo-shopped this image to make the face brighter and not blend in too much with the background. I like how the models clothing is dark mostly because it fits in with the theme and and makes the models face stand out more.
FIFTH PHOTO SHOOT - FIRST OUTCOME ANALYSIS
Personally, I believe that this outcome is the best outcome that I have produced so far, mostly because of the brick wall and the models white striped jacket creating leading lines for the viewer. I am also fond of the models merge and how it is sleek but distorted. I like how there is a slit between each section of the models body. The models face being neutral makes the image seem more professional.
FIFTH PHOTO SHOOT - SECOND OUTCOME
Personally, I think this is the best outcome so far because it correlates with the photographers work the most. I think that the pop of colour contrasts with the white stripes and the black surrounding the jacket. I believe this is the smoothest photo-shop I have worked with so far because of the two images being very similar. However, I do believe that I should manipulate these images one more time so I have a variety of images to choose from.
FIFTH PHOTO SHOOT - THIRD OUTCOME
I like this final outcome mostly because I have understood how to use the liquify tool correctly and the curves tool, by not making the image overexposed nor underexposed. I am fond of the model higher up is lighter than the model on the ground, mostly because it creates a deeper feel to the viewer, possibly a spiritual feeling. I do not think I have to carry on photo-shopping these images as I believe I have enough to work with and as I know I have the image I would like to use for my final piece. From now on, I will focus on my final piece and what I plan to do with the outcomes I have produced.
FINAL PIECE
For my final piece, I plan to print out my final outcomes onto professional photography paper. I plan to print out my images in the size 6"x4". I will then use four frames to place my outcomes in around one frame containing five slots to place the last five outcomes in. I believe that I will slice one outcome so it is distorted. I will then blue-tack my images into the frames. For my selection of images, I will place my frames aesthetically together with black card behind it for a contrast of colour. I have bought LED lights to wrap around my outer layer of frames to make the final piece more pleasing to view. I plan to manipulate the images in photo-shop because I believe that when I take my images of the frames, the outer edge will appear in the shot.
PROCESS
SELECTION OF IMAGES
DEVELOPING MY WORK
FINAL FRAME PIECE
Overall, I love my final frame piece as it is aesthetically pleasing as the images are simply placed in the different colour frames. I believe that the black card behind the frames looks professional and has made the image come together. I like how the four black frames are sleek and is contrasted with the brown wooden frame placed in the middle. If I were able to redo this final frame concept, I would have the images correlate together and instead of white card in the frames, I would use different colours.