Printing for the Subject

As you begin to print, ask yourself this question, "What type of mood is portrayed by my subject/content?" How you choose to print your photograph should take this into consideration. High drama? What about using a 4 or 5 filter to really boost the contrast. Soft and quiet? Play down the contrast and really pay attention to the middle and lighter values. Yes, every photographer should be able to print a good photograph with a full tonal range of values from white to black, but do not forget to print for mood as well.

Infrared Photography

Most of you know that last weekend I spent some time at the Turtle Island Preserve in NC with Eustace Conway. Conway has lived out in the woods, and off the land, for 20+ years. His vision of sustainability and independence is awe inspiring. The subsequent photos of the trip were created with Kodak 35mm Infrared film, a #25 red filter, and over-processing in the developer. Notice the grain and the inverted values--both characteristic of this film. See me if you would like to buy some of this film and try your hand at Infrared!