Integrating Color Photography into Your Repertoire
This image is an intimate landscape taken at Cantwell Cliffs in Hocking Hills of Ohio, circa 1992. I ran across it going through some of my old film work from years ago. Zone VI 4x5, Fuji Velvia film, other details unrecorded.
A little while back I wrote a post about Returning to the Cradle, photographically. I basically suggested that I needed to return to where I started with my photography years ago and focus more on black and white. Moreover, I for the most part have abandoned digital capture and returned to shooting film using medium and large format cameras. Notwithstanding my recent return to old school analog photography, I have now decided to allow a bit of color work back into my repertoire
Cantwell Cliffs Nature Preserve
The beauty of fall contrasted against a rugged cliff wall at Cantwell Cliffs in Hocking Hills, Ohio.
Zone VI 4x5, Fuji Velvia, exposure unrecorded, circa 1992
I of course realize that by including color photography in my portfolio it can attract a wider audience. Although, I’m not certain that is really important, as I take images for myself. If someone else feels a connection that’s great. But it is not what drives me to compose an image.
The act of capturing an image is inherently driven by my deep sense of personal expression and a profound connection to the subject matter at hand. Each photograph tells a unique story, intricately reflecting my innermost thoughts, feelings, and varied experiences. While it is undoubtedly rewarding when others are able to connect with and appreciate these visual narratives on some level, my primary motivation behind taking photographs ultimately lies in fulfilling my creative vision and experiencing a strong emotional resonance in the process.
Ash Cave and Ice Towers, Hocking Hills, Ohio
Zone VI 4x5, Fuji Velvia, Exposure details unrecorded, circa 1992
Embracing color in my photography doesn't mean forsaking the timeless appeal of black and white; rather, it offers an excellent opportunity to further expand my artistic horizons and infuse some of my images with additional layers of emotion and energy. Perhaps integrating color back into my repertoire can truly elevate my creative process and inspire new perspectives. It certainly can’t hurt to experiment in this way. However, I can’t deny that I do have a deep appreciation for the black and white process, which will undeniably remain a significant and cherished portion of my body of work.
Glen Helen Nature Preserve Greene County, Ohio
Early morning backlight in the winter forest of Glen Helen Nature Preserve.
Zone VI 4x5, exposure details unrecorded, circa 1992.
I would love to hear your thoughts.
