New blog site

I have created a new blog through a new provider - Vox.

So in future visit lightandtexture.vox.com

I will attempt to load all my past posts there so stay tuned.

The ways of digital - part two

As a follow up to this past post here are a few more images from the series. Since the first post I've spent quite some time thinking over the whole issue of going digital. I'm very aware of the long term archiving issues and they are well documented in all forms of media, but with the trip approaching I can definately see a lot of benefits to embracing the digital world.

However, and it is a big however I don't see how digital fits into my photographic style and extensive use of black and white. Certainly this is one are in which film beats digital hands down. An opinion shared by many (including digital users).

So there is an interesting internal battle being played out in my head on whether to purchase a digital camera. The easy money is on me giving in and purchasing a Nikon D70 or possibly the about to be released D80. Would be great to be able to afford a Nikon D200. One day maybe, one day.

A digital would be a great way to explore London and develope my love of photojournalism and street photography. But I still have a hankering for film and infact am keen to discover what medium format cameras (6x7 & 6x9) I can uncover in London. Now if I had to choose between a digital or say a 6x9, the 6x9 might just win if the price was the same. If either one was a bargain then I'd guess I'd just have to get both.

Update - Landcape of the Body

Previously (June 2005) I posted on a project I have had under development for some time. Well, recently I had the opportunity to actually shoot some images for this project. I have to thank my willing and brave models who ventured out into a very cold wintry Wellington night. I really must say I found the whole proces very challenging indeed, from dealing with the lighting to trying to be at ease with a nude model. In all honesty it was rather intimidating and I can only think it will be a lot easier when the second session is under way.

The session met all my objectives as really, it was a trial of the lighting, film selection and poses for the models. It was a great learning experience and certainly pushed me outside of my comfort zone. It has made me rethink the whole project - what am I trying to achieve, the poses and all the technical issues. I was really disappointed with the lighting and this requires a whole new approach.

One other thing I found fustrating if not disappointing was the quality of the prints from the lab who are normally quite reliable. I happened to pick the one day when the person who normally does the printing was away. What I need to do now is spend some time in the darkroom working the print into a quality where I can make some decent judgement on the 'where to from here'.

I would love to be able to post some samples of the session but once again I am having trouble uploading these particular images. However, I will keep trying.

Update: having failed to be able to upload these images, please visit my alternative blog lightandtexture.vox.com I have posted them there.