Photo-Impressionism

the idea

I have been experimenting with in-camera multiple exposures and digitally layered photographs to create photo impressionistic images (for art purists I admit the images are really examples of post-impressionism). They have promise. I like the way the photograph conveys energy and motion. As well, the soft image can bring the eye to rest on unexpected detail.

the technique

Photo impressionistic technique defies definition. It is experimental in nature. I have been working in 2 areas and looking for subjects for others that will likely provide powerful impressionistic photographs:

• In camera multiple exposures; I like this effect the best because there is an element of chance and the soft colours and forms remind me of impressionistic paintings.
• Photoshop montage; is much more contrived but the effects can be very powerful.
• Slow sync flash; 
• Rear sync flash;
• Multiple flash;
• Moon  light exposures: and
• The Orton Technique.

 

The Dragon Boaters 4 by Stephen D'Agostino is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 2.5 Canada License.
Permissions beyond the scope of this license may be available at http://www.dagostino.ca/comment.html. 

I first experienced the use of multiple exposures and digitally layered images to create photo impressionistic images in Freeman Patterson and Andre Gallant's book "Photo Impressionism and the Subjective Image". A great read if you are looking to push your creativity. I hope to add to their ideas by posting images over time

The Dragon Boaters 7 by Stephen D'Agostino is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 2.5 Canada License.
Permissions beyond the scope of this license may be available at http://www.dagostino.ca/comment.html. 

examples

Take a look at my dragon boat images for examples of in camera multiple exposure and Photoshop montage and let me know what you think. I have also posted some works in progress and images taken at the 2006 Club Crew World Dragon Boat Championships. The works in progress might give you a better idea of the technique.  I am currently preparing an exhibition as part of Toronto's Contact Photography Exhibition. I will post the working images as they are completed.

In Front of The Mona Lisa 1 by Stephen D'Agostino is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 2.5 Canada License.
Permissions beyond the scope of this license may be available at http://www.dagostino.ca/comment.html.