A flower is a flower. How do you shoot a flower? How do you shoot an interesting picture of a flower?
As part of my research I looked at the work of Robert Mapplethorpe and Imogen Cunningham.
Robert Mapplethorpe
I first came across Mapplethorpe in Graham Clarke's book The Photograph. The book discusses the portraits of Mapplethorpe and his exploration of portraiture from a homosexual perspective. His self portrait series looks at themes like self-identity, sexuality and the public and private self.
Having this as my first introduction to the artist, I was surprised to see his flowers series. However, I must say that his delicate treatment of flowers was a refreshing change to the habitual macro shots you tend to see everywhere from flickr to discount print stores.
I particularly liked the freshness of his work with flowers, the way in which his simple arrangements tends to give a greater air of importance to his subject. His use of light is very effective and breathes life into the flowers.
Imogen Cunningham
As my assignment was based on the creative effects of monochrome I found Cunningham's work highly relevant. Her interest in botanical photography including her in depth study of the magnolia flower are very inspiring.
The black and white medium definitely highlights the graphical qualities of shape, form and texture. Her images are clutter free and with the use of light she brings out the textural characteristics of her subjects.
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