I have chosen to interpret for this presentation Ansel Adams, the legendary American photographer and environmentalist known for his black-and-white landscapes of the American West. Ansel Adams perfected what is called the Zone System: a means of regulating exposure and offering tonal values with such fidelity that every picturecaptured a full range of tones, from deep shadows to bright highlights. These are pictures I've selected that not only show his technical skillsbut also how much he was connected to nature-from an extremely quiet and spiritual scene of "Moonrise, Hernandez, New Mexico" to thebreathtaking view of Yosemite Valley in "Clearing Winter Storm, Yosemite National Park." It is with these shots that Adams records not just beauty in the beautiful sceneries but a respect for conservation as well as the presentation of nature as something highly valued. This presentation reveals his dynamic range and sharp detail in Adams' work, the skill and precision to produce such touching images, and how vitally important photography is in the role it plays with environmental awareness which I am also in big support of.
Looking at the work of Ansel Adams really changed my perception of photography, particularly landscape photography, by showing howmuch work and technical skill had gone into each photo. I'd similarly thought that photography was all about capturing exactly what was in front of the camera; Adams's use of the Zone System proved it was just as much about interpreting light and contrast to bring out the essence of a scene. His photography does more than picture scenery; it also elicits feeling and challenges the viewer to take a conservationist approach as well. Through his photographs, Adams has shown my belief that photography can be used as one of the most powerful means to make artistic and aesthetic statements and also as an call for awareness for nature's protection. He has been able to show me that photography isn't just about what one sees, it is a very involved when used to incite change.
Your presentation on Sam Taylor-Wood really brought out an artist of great depth through profound themes-like times of mortality and the human condition-on celebrity subjects. You put her work into context with background on her career and achievements, and also selected works that reflect her versatility.
The background provided of Taylor-Wood and the range of her various works, from time-lapse videos to portraits, facilitated a clear illustration of her unique approach and artistry in the thematic focus she brought forth, making it quite captivating.
Diving deeper into specific examples with detailed descriptions of her techniques, such as lighting and composition, could better illustrate the emotional impact of her work.
You worked well with the concepts in Chapter 4, particularly when you discussed her use of known subjects and broke down the meaning of the abstract themes in her piece. A bit more critical consideration would help to develop this more.
Through her use of time-lapse and portraiture, Taylor-Wood is able to convey introspection and vulnerability, taking iconic faces and rendering them in such a way to remind viewers of the fleeting nature of life.
Her work brings a sense of humility; it demands that viewers look beyond the depths of the message being put across.
The presentation has indeed changed the way I thought about photography and what it can be used for.
Inspired by Taylor-Wood, I’m motivated to explore deeper themes and emotions in my own photography, focusing on composition and lighting to transform everyday subjects into impactful art.