I learned many things during this month’s Flash of Red February theme, but what I learned about most is light. In the absence of color, light became more evident and important to me than ever before. I found shooting for the light quite fun as I discovered the light falling on my subject encouraging me to make creative choices that I would not have thought of in the past!
I found shooting for the other elements that the author focused on, such as line, pattern, texture, shape, and form, to be more challenging in part because I rarely set up or go out looking for subjects. Rather, I’m drawn to photograph a subject I simply encounter in my day that speaks to me in a meaningful way. While I do try my very best to capture my subject artistically, my emotional connection with my subject often outweighs a lack of the technical elements; so not surprisingly, looking back over my month of black and white images, I much prefer the subjects that found me rather than the subjects that I set out to find in order to complete a certain assignment.
On this gray morning, the bright white orchids on the black oriental chest drew me into the exercise room. With the injured Achilles keeping me from the room for months, I saw everything with new eyes, including the light. White orchids symbolize healing, and I’m encouraged by this image as I continue healing from my Achilles tendon injury and striving to return to the treadmill in that very room. I love viewing this image on the black background.
Many thanks to Ann @olivetreeann for coordinating the Flash of Red February theme, for summarizing the author’s words so well, and for encouraging us on our journey into black and white. I’m happy that I participated and that I stuck with it when the going got tough!
You are so right! The subjects that we are drawn too usually turn out my favourite photographs too, rather than the ones I force myself to take. Great job with the orchids. Love the light :)
