Assignment (Reading Images)

For this week, we were taught about reading images and the different aspects of photography. Issues about aesthetic intention were covered and we were exposed to different genres in photography and also the formal elements like angle of view, framing/composition and texture to name a few. Also we were taught about using flash in photography.

The blog assignment for this week required us to select an image from a publication and analyse it in terms of how it will be perceived and apply what we learnt for the analysis.

I have decided to look into the works of Ami Vitale who can be considered a social documentor. Her photographs were taken as she went through the experience of that particular culture/context. She decided to capture shots to tell her stories, believing that there's more to a photograph than just seeing the surface itself.

This picture was taken in Kashmir after two wars were being fought. This place was once a popular tourist attraction but has then turned into a danger zone after the wars were fought, with another one expected to approach. What i like about this photograph is that despite the violence that the place has went through (and another round to come), the photograph shows a sense of peace and hope for the war to be over. The photograph was taken in a mosque with two men praying. on the surface, one might see that it is just a religious ritual being carried out, but beneath it, as we know the context that this photograph was taken, there is a stronger sense of association and sentiments for the attainment of peace. the light that is shining through the window seems to represent a sense of hope given to the men. This picture is very compelling as the focus seem to be on the two men in the desperation for peace for the country and at the same time within themselves. The contrast between the dark and lighted parts of the room accentuates the feel of the photo.

Her other wonderful works can be found at this website:
http://www.amivitale.com/