Themes are emerging in my search for a coherent portfolio. Here we visit Holavallagardur in Reykjavik to explore one theme.
I definitely feel that I’m making progress in bringing more organization to my portfolio, as categories are defining themselves and themes are emerging.
The emerging themes are not a complete surprise, as I know of my predilection towards images that give a sense of lonely struggle with a bit hope of beating the odds and elements. While this is a bit broad brush, my favorite landscape images are not those that portray a beauty, but rather those rugged ones where you can see yourself persevering.
In a more urban setting this often translates to a draw towards cemeteries…
Lighting the Way
This image is from the new graveyard in Reykjavik, Hólavallagarður; new, as it was established in 1838, as the one that had been used since Viking times didn’t serve the needs of the growing city.
For me a walk through a cemetery is restful and provides a sense of connection with those who have gone before; older cemeteries are my preference due to their portrayal of the history of the area and giving some idea of how people approached both life and death. Memento mori is a great reminder to all of us.
When I saw the lantern hanging above the grave, it provided me with the idea of lighting the way to the great beyond, which is a theme throughout millennia of civilizations. The Egyptian Book of the Dead, the Bardo Thodol in Buddhism and crossing the Styx in Greek mythology are examples that spring to mind. We, the living, want to make sure that the dead find their way to a good place in the great hereafter.
A Fresh Perspective
Photography is more than just a vehicle for capturing the world around me; it provides me with a palette and a set of brushes, with which I paint not only what I see, but also look to express the emotions that are evoked by the scene in front of me in that moment.
Growing up in the Netherlands exposed me to a wide cross-section of visual arts that laid the foundation of my photographic view of all that surrounds me. Early influences were the Dutch Masters of the 17th century, to whom I was introduced by my grandfather during museum explorations; favorites among them are the scenes of quotidian life depicted by Jan Steen and Frans Hals and the vivid landscapes of Jacob van Ruisdael.
My classical high school education was supplemented by the Boijmans Van Beuningen museum, where I spent many a lunch hour exploring its great collection. Here I was introduced to surrealism with a particular love for the approach taken by Salvador Dali; Dali also rekindled my appreciation for the work of Hieronymus Bosch, who often showed the folly of us mortals.
Universal Connections
My approach to any photographic subject is to look for understanding first; in this I look to establish either a connection between the viewer and the subject or capture the connection of the subject with its surroundings. The captured image then aims to portray this connection from a perspective that is part of my personal interpretation.
This interpretation is often a form of externalized introspection, which may alternately display the connection of isolated beings and items with their environment or highlight the whimsy of the profound world, in which we find ourselves. The universe is full of connections, many of which are waiting to be discovered; part of my journey as a photographer is to document these connections.
Any assignment, be it an event, a product shoot or a portrait session is always approached through communication with the client; this is where the first connection is established. Ideas are exchanged and a collaborative plan of action forms, ultimately resulting in a set of images that aim to exceed the expectations of each client.
And, lest we forget, it is important to have fun while practicing the serious business of photography!
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3 thoughts on “Monday’s Portfolio Musing v2.11”
I agree, memento mori is a great reminder to all of us.
Lovely photo but my eyes can’t rest on the lantern, the white on the grave behind is what calls for attention.
Thank you! I agree with you 100% that the white on the gravestone creates a tension that draws the eye, which we then bring back to the lantern. I’ve thought about putting a flame in the lantern, as that would provide even more tension between the gravestone and the lantern.
I agree, memento mori is a great reminder to all of us.
Lovely photo but my eyes can’t rest on the lantern, the white on the grave behind is what calls for attention.
HI Dina-Hanne,
Thank you! I agree with you 100% that the white on the gravestone creates a tension that draws the eye, which we then bring back to the lantern. I’ve thought about putting a flame in the lantern, as that would provide even more tension between the gravestone and the lantern.
I like your observation!