Today we went to a few gallery’s in the city. On Chelsea from 25th street to 19th street. The three my favorite Photographers had to be Irving Penn, Pieter Hugo and Nick Brandt. Firstly, Irving Penn, On Assignment most of the photos were portraits of Individuals or group portraits. A lot of these photos were taken during his shoots for Fashion Magazine hence the name of the show On Assignment. His portraits were full bodied photos in mostly black and white. His older photos were were pretty simple for example he had taken portraits in a self made corner subjecting the focus on the individuals. Since the lighting wasn’t so bright A his work it was a bit more darker and mysterious and even a little creepy. I also found it interesting is that Irving Penn is a perfectionist which means a lot of his models and assistance had to be very patient with him. By looking at his photos I would have never guessed that he is a fashion photographer.
Pieter Hugo, Kin. Like Irving Penn, Pieter Hugo shot a lot of Portraits. Penn shot mostly black and white portraits where as Hugo shot very clear and crisp photographs. I believe his lighting style was more direct lighting to clear up the face and make it more crisp. Most of his photos the subjects are not smiling and are usually out doors but there were a few that were indoors. One this that really Intrigues me about his photos is that us as the viewer has a feel of what the subject feels. Kind of looking into the life of his subjects through these photos.
Lastly, Nick Brandt, Across the Ravaged Land. Immediately walking in to this gallery I notices some really great compositions. Photos of Lions, Elephants and other animals caught everyones eye. As we looked through the gallery one question was in mind, How is Brandt taking these close up shots of this ferocious animals. We later find out he uses a film camera and he actually stays around the animals until the animals get comfortable with his presence. Most of his photos are not very bright but I believe he does this on purpose. He does this so we understand how harsh animal life might be in this desert land. His photos make me feel content for these animals. For example, in one of the photos we see like 20 people holding up elephant tusks, Made me wonder if these people actually killed all these animals or did natural causes end their lives. Over all these gallery were great.
