Week 9:National Photographic Portrait Prize 2009

Favourite Images

These are my two favourite portraits, for the reasons listed below. 

Technically the lighting and clarity of this print were amazing. The size and presentation complimented the work. The subjects expressions seem to convey a truthfulness about their character, the photograph is simple yet fantastic.

The first aspect that drew me to this photograph was that it was different. The amazing natural light, reflections and use of a strong red against a faint blue background is striking. The size of the print worked well with the theme, however the clarity was not fantastic. The blurb was just enough to give me a bit of insight to the meaning behind the image. The intention of replacing the traditional middle class white sitter in old Master and Victorian paintings with an indigenous woman is clever and is conveyed effectively in the photograph.

Least Favourite Image
Link to Exhibition: http://www.portrait.gov.au/site/NPPP2009_9.php

Fearless Leader - Rosiland Smallwood

The exhibition as a whole displays some outstanding pieces. In my opinion, a portrait as distinct from a photograph of a person should encompass an ability to portray an idea, or one or more aspects of a person’s identity, charisma or individuality. To me the strongest portraits are those which can do these things in a creative way, and are even more successful if they allow the viewer the ability to connect with the subject on a deeper level. The above portrait, ‘Fearless Leader’ by Rosiland Smallwood, to me is but a mere photograph. It encompasses none of the characteristics that I believe make a good image. The photograph looks as if it was a snapshot, and that the composition and expression were not thought out at all. The harsh lighting, centred composition, cropping, dull colours, blown out shirt, harsh shadows dividing the subjects shirt and also casting ‘crosshatching’ on the man’s face are all the factors that I dislike about the image. It also makes me wonder how this entry was chosen out of so many photographs, and what justifies it being hung next to some amazing prints.