Here are the notes I made regarding the assignment that are incorporated in the tutor feedback form.
•Tutor was “really impressed” about my assignment 5 image. This was a
very pleasing note to finish the course on. This has been the most
enjoyable and rewarding assignment that I have worked on to date.
• Confirmed that the image encompasses all the aspects I wanted to
address.
• Analysis of the image is strong.
• The research and development are demonstrated in the final image.
• Annotated contact sheets were useful in reaching the final edit.
• Self-evaluation captures the main points well.
• No re-work required.
• Good to see reference to Mark Wallinger’s ‘nativity’ image in research.
• Discussed Hay on the Highway book and marksofhonour.com.
I am very pleased with the outcome of this assignment. The research and planning paid dividends in the submitted image. It was my first foray into lighting a scene and self-portrait. The attention to detail required for just a single shot was enlightening and rewarding having previously only produced series.
Visiting a Gregory Crewdson exhibition last year and revisiting his work as part of research in the course notes had a huge influence on the style and feel of the image. I felt confident in my choices including the use of the blue spotlight, high viewpoint and inclusion of religious motifs.
I surprised myself how the creative ideas and choices developed. Before starting the module I wondered what other subjects I could take on and questioned my creative capabilities. Certainly the research and exhibition visits are beginning to have an effect on me.
The biggest challenge on this assignment was the lighting setup. I researched lighting types and evaluated what I required for my shoot not having been to the venue. Once again, I surprised myself with how well the choices I made worked out. Cost was a factor so I was always wary of cost/quality issues. The 3 metre heavy duty light stands were a good choice for holding the camera and LED panel. The smaller light stand was ideal for holding the spotlight on the window sill behind the curtain.
I will present the image as an A3+ print for assessment. There is no rework required.
Martyn Rainbird 