Andy Bosselman
@andybosselman7 Jun
Analyzing How To Shoot Like Webb & Gruyaert
A handful of photographers have figured out how to create the complex, layered images that Alex Webb and Harry Gruyaert are known for. I haven't, so I want to start reverse-engineering what's going on in their best work and write it down, hoping the exercise makes me a better shooter. I'd love to crowdsource this. What elements do you see in images that can be broken down, studied, and applied when we go out and shoot? I've started a list below. Add to it, discuss. And if you've found any books or resources particularly helpful for this kind of work, I'd love to hear about those. Types of Places: Bus stops, beaches, parks, outdoor markets, events. Locations: Some places are more conducive to this kind of work, where life happens outdoors, colors are vibrant, and people don't mind cameras: Cuba, Oaxaca, Istanbul. How to Work a Scene: Friendly body language. Insert yourself into group until you're ignored. Offer an instant print. Compositional Tools: Light poles, building corners, glass, shadows, doorways. Lighting Situations: Harsh midday light, gray skies, golden hour, blue hour. Color: What times of day offer the lighting you want? Get close: Where exactly do you put the camera? How close? Layering: Identifying situations with foreground, middle ground, background and knowing where to stand. Timing: Returning to a spot, spending time at a single location Photo: Dante Sisofo
If I'm doing this, I'll need a really good backdrop as the starting point. Could be a colour, a pattern or a visual (perhaps an ad board). Also some exceptional light (I prefer golden hour). Then just stay in the scene, move around, watch the patterns, weigh it up and shoot. Own the situation but be respectful. Engage. Find a really good subject to ground it. Enjoy it. Never expect to get anything close to Webb or Gruyeart, but ask yourself if it would 'fit' with their way of doing things.
There is an amazing (extremely generous and knowledgeable) teacher on YouTube whose videos offer valuable advice on growing your street photography skills. His name is Gil Kreslavsky. Obviously, I cannot recommend him enough. Here is one video where he discusses Alex Webb's work.
That’s a great recommend
Thanks, that's good video. Looking forward to spending more time with his stuff. :-)
