The unexpectedly iconic image
I have been asked about one surprisingly iconic image repeatedly in the short time since I took it. It is the last image on this page, and it is special to me because it embodies how I look at photography.
When I first arrived to photograph Anjelika getting ready, I had little an idea of what I’d find inside the doors of her parents house.
This was a family who loved surrounding themselves with beauty. Their home was filled with fine furniture and exquisite art. I so enjoyed talking to Anjelika’s mother about the beautiful pieces.
I saw it as soon as I walked into the master bedroom. ‘Luncheon of the boating party’ is a painting by French impressionist Pierre-Auguste Renoir. This, of course, is a reproduction of the original. Dating back to 1880, it depicts a candid view of a group of people enjoying life. The essence that Renoir captured is transfixing. I fell in love with this painting while in High School art class. The composition, colours, and especially the emotional content, is exactly what I am always chasing when at work.
It is obvious to me when I reflect on the photos that I took during the morning that I was trying to work out in my head how I’d match the image. Having it in front of my while I created these photos was totally inspired me. The more time my mind hand to ponder on it, the more clarity I formed of what the final image would be.
When Anjelika was ready I took some beautiful portraits of her, I was just soaking up the wonderful home we were in.
Finally it was time to take the photo I wanted to create. Using Renoir’s image as a backdrop, and as a clear influence and inspiration on the content of this photo, I coaxed the girls into a familiar pose and behaviour.
I hope you like it.
