I’ve been working on a much more refined image development workflow.
I have a precise idea in my head of how I want my images to display, and it takes a lot of work to get it right.
Its almost like a secret, how I finally got these images correct. It involves creating layers applying a special filter, and then editing whats under the filter,
Backwards steps to perfect the image. Counterintuitive, but Its the first time I felt I’ve got it exactly right.
The Image coming off the camera is a very flat, lifeless thing.
The idea is to develop the flat image to the point that it bursts with energy and life, and gives the same emotional impression I felt at the time of being in that place, taking that image.
It felt like ‘magic moments’ at the time of capturing these images, so its a proper effort to try and instill the magic of the moment into the final images.
I generally feel really disappointed with all my shots. I think all photographers do.
But, when I produce a collection like this, it tells a little story. There might be one standout form a collection like this, but I also like the variability within a collection, the nuances, and the way the B grade images support the leading images in a collection.
This is a new process for me, and provided a lot more learning steps ready to implement for the next batch i develop.
The exciting this is, I’ve not yet gone out to photograph a place or subject knowing these new development ideas.
I can see how naive i was when i was out shooting, and I kinda need to play a fix up game in post production.
But knowing what I know now, I’ll go out shooting with new enthusiastic eyes.
And as lame as it sounds, I’ll know how to see the magic in front of me.
I’ll know the developmental potential in a scene, in a way I’ve know been able to see it in the past.
These images are MEGE processed.
There is so much processing potential with the hasselblad cameras, its extremely satisfying.
But, when shown to friends for feedback they couldn’t tell that the images had filters applied.
So thats a win.
And I’m pretty satisfied with this collection.
Alex James
don’t forget the selfies… 💪
Hats are the sign of a committed photographer.
A rare overcast day on the top of island Hvar
