Eternal Vigil

Eternal Vigil

With all of my recent experiences in teaching photography beyond the fundamentals, I thought it would be helpful to look at some of my recent images and discuss some of the decisions made in their creation. Decisions are made in the capture of every image, some aesthetic, some technical and some emotional/metaphoric.

'Eternal Vigil' taken in a Richmond stable in April 2020 appeals to me as having anthropomorphic, empathetic and storytelling qualities. It seems like a little techno creature forever watching and waiting. Without a function, minus a light bulb, its purpose is in question. Yet, a dignity remains, representative of its  of its useful past.

The 'head' shining with reflection stands out against the darker background, creating tonal separation. The low camera angle and vertical orientation add to the elevation and power of the subject. The fixture seems to be a witness watching over the world from its perch above the horizontal planking of the stall. Its head is placed within a square metal cell created by the fencing, allowing it to see through to the other side.

The camera settings required were in part due to the dark quarters and lack of tripod. I used a high ISO of 3200 to achieve a shutter speed of 1/60, guaranteeing sharpness. The shallow depth of field accomplishes two things; allowing more light through the lens and isolating the subject from the background.


Finally, the decision to abstract the image in Black and White in post processing separates it from reality and enhances the eternal timeless nature of the vigil.

This is my vision the metaphor, of paying homage to the remaining relics representative of a storied past. It is the 'why' of my deepest connections with subjects.


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