Jersey Shore

Beach Commet

This is another David Fokos photograph. It struck me because it reminded me of a picture I took when I was at the Jersey Shore. I really like how there is just one single item in a large body of sand, yet it is trailing behind. I also think that the lighting of the photograph is perfect, as the rock has a shadow to the left. I would say my favorite part of the photo though, is the horizon because of how straight it is, yet it looks like it has a lot of different shadows and shades going on.

David Fokos

What I really appreciate about David Fokos photopraphy is the tranquility of it. The clouds in the sky make it seem almost like a dream. There are many elements of the composition that make the picture as well. First, it always makes a very powerful photograph when there is a leading line from the beginning of the photo, going outwards to the end. Also the repetition of the dock makes it very interesting. Finally I really like how there are two fences framing the picture on each side, and they are a darker color making the center alluminate more.

Sailboat

New York City

World Trade Center

I really wanted to give credit to this photograph, especially after the historical event that has taken place. I know that all pictures taken during the World Trade Center are very emotioinal, and some very saddening. Yet this picture gives hope to citizens. The rubble all over the place gives note of the tragedy, yet the flag still hanging shows how America will prevail, and can make it through anything with the help and love for our nation.

Chillin

Identical Twins

This photograph is called Identical Twins, and was taken by Diane Arbus in Roselle New Jersey, 1967.  Clearly these twins are completely identical. What I think makes it a very beautiful picture is how their eyes stand out. The black and white brings out the fact that they have light eyes and dark hair. Also it is interesting that though they are identical and standing/wearing the exact same thing, their facial expressions are different. One looks as if they are a bit angry, while the other one has a sweet smile on her face.

This photograph was taken by Lee Friedlander. What is interesting about this picture is you can't tell who is walking in and who is walking out. There are actually a lot of things going on as well, and perhaps political statements. What I think is most interesting is the obvious difference of status in the man and the woman. She is clearly of higher status, dressed nicely with heals and a purse as he looks pretty grungy. To me this is saying that the classes cannot walk side by side, but in different directions. It is definitely showing the separation. The reflection of the photographer also ads a lot to everything going on in the picture.

Boiling Crabs

Not Sure

I'm actually not completely sure who took this photograph, but I found it online on one of my friends facebooks. I had always loved the feel of it. I think that the coloring definitely adds a nice touch to it which makes the lights and the city in the background look like it is some type of treasure. I also love the color of the sky. But what I must say is my favorite part of the picture is the guys with their backs facing the camera. It shows a level of the intensity of brotherhood, as well as shows the street life style in comparison to a beautifully glitzy city below.

Snow Waves

Response to Grundberg Review

            I decided to read of Andy Grundberg was titled Review/Photography; In Winokur's Portraits, You Are What You Own. First off, I like the name of the title—it is kind of a play off of words “you are what you eat”. Basically, as the title shows, Grundberg delved into the meaning of Neil Winokur's photographs with items in the background. He notes that Winokur made a lot of gestures toward materialism, and possessiveness. I think that this is a logical analysis of Grundberg to make. I find it interesting that photographers think so far into their photos while taking them. I also find it interesting that critics are so quick to assume that everything in a photograph has a purpose. Perhaps because I am only a rookie at this, but sometimes I wonder if a photographer always chose what they include in the picture for certain reasons. For example, perhaps the objects in the photos just happened to be there and look nice. Grundberg surely has an eye for photography and a creative way of analyzing every little aspect of the photographer’s work.

            With that said, I do like what Grundberg is saying about the photos. He describes Winokur’s pictures by saying “objects are in no way didactic or hectoring; if anything, they are imbued with a sense of playfulness that approaches the condition of camouflage.” The idea of camouflaging these objects, in a playful manner is an exciting and motivating belief.

America By Car

Since my article was on Lee Friedlander, I had been looking at many of his photographs, and took a liking to many of them. I noticed in a lot of his pictures he was in a car--and he sure liked to show it. This is a particular example of this method in what I think is a comical way. Clearly there is a car up on a pole--I'm not sure how that worked out. And he is also inside the car taking the picture. But if you look closely there is also a car in the reerview mirror. According to the title I am guessing that he is comentating on the importance of cars in the American society at the time, which has proved itself to be a fast growing neccesity and item for an every day American citizen.

Lower

I Exist A I Am, That is Enough

What I like about this photograph is the simplicity of it. I think that some photos speak for themselves, but the fact that the girl is holding up the sign makes you think more about the true meaning. Clearly the idea of the blank background coincides with the idea that "I exist as I am, that is enough." I also find it interesting that she isn't making a particularly attractive face, and her eyes are covered by sunglasses. It too goes along with this idea of simplicity and comfort in just being herself. I also like how it is (or looks like) it was taken on a polaroid. This effect helps fulfill the theme of simplicity.

When Field Hockey Players Play Basketball