As I really begin to focus upon pursuing my long-held interest in still photography, my starting point has pretty much consisted of “remaking” some of my self-portraits from days of yore. This particular image is practically an exact redux of a shot from November, 2006; the guitar, wardrobe (at least, what little there is), and even the backdrop in this shot were all featured in the original. What makes this shot superior to version 1.0 is not only the utilization of a professional-quality camera, but also a better understanding of, and ability to execute, proper lighting techniques. I’m not saying that I now have this whole photography thing figured out completely (I’ve barely scratched the surface), but even someone as harshly self-critical as I can grudgingly concede that I’m finally starting to get somewhere with it.
The basic concept of composition represents a broadly looming element in my life at the moment; in fact, it is currently rearing its head in a way which is has not in quite some time. Obviously, shot composition is something which is very much on my mind at the moment. Still photography aside, I am currently working on a new short film as director of photography, which is my first time holding any position in the camera department, much less as the head of said department. It’s going to be a very cool film, as the director, gaffer, and I have worked out some totally bitchin’ Hitchcockian shots involving a lot of dolly and jib movements. I’m definitely looking forward to the experience.
The prominent return of music composition into my life is largely related to my filmmaking escapades, as I flat out refuse to use stock music in any film I produce and/or direct; and since Tangerine Dream is apparently never going to return my phone calls, then the job of scoring my film projects falls upon my shoulders. Admittedly, I’m enduring something of a composer’s block at the moment as I attempt to score LRC, with added pressure due to the fact that it’s the film is otherwise complete. I know I’m pushing too hard, despite (or, more likely, perhaps) only needing a rather minimalist piece in terms of both composition and arrangement, but I’m not worried about having it all said and done in the extremely near future. This is all quite typical behavior in regards to how I roll…
On a quasi-composition related note: I’m finally going to start getting this very website finished over the coming winter break from school. As it currently sits, I feel as if I’ve been living in a new home which is both unfinished and unfurnished; basically, it’s time for that to end.
Tags: alfred hitchcock, director of photography, film score, music composition, photography, self-portraiture, short film, shot composition, tangerine dream
