I want to introduce you to a photographer whom I admire greatly, both as a photographer and a person: Brian Rondeau. I’ll be honest: I know him in “real life,” but I feel even if I didn’t I would still be stunned by the photographs he creates on his digital SLR (Canon EOS 20D). They are a lesson in capturing the vibrant colors of the world and using the geometry of nature to draw your eyes through the picture. His photos just pop!
Someday, he has promised, he will give me a lesson in how to use all of his nifty photog gadgets (filters, EF-S 17-55 f/2.8 IS USM lens, etc). Until then, I will just admire his photos, and share them with you, in the hope of moving him beyond “amateur” and into “professional.” I certainly think he is capable, don’t you?
While a photographer might usually go for a straight-on flower shot, allowing the blossom to take up the entire frame, Brian decided to keep the flower off-center. This choice divides the frame into three sections: flower, sky, and earth. This causes it to stand out in contrast to its surroundings, which makes the blossom seem stronger (and somehow lonelier). This photo isn’t of the flower, but the flower in relation to its environment. Gorgeous, in my opinion. Frame it and put it on the wall!!
This photo is another example of how Brian uses line and color. Again, the frame is divided into three chunks. The lines of the rock lead to the lighthouse and up into the sky. The colors are clear and pure. It is simple but strong.
This photo is an example of how simplicity goes a long way. This flower box, shot straight on, centered, no fuss, would be a lovely print to hang on one’s wall. It contains a small range of bright colors that work well together. The purple-pink flowers jump out against the sea-blue wall. Brian saw an ordinary flower box and made it the object of art. Well done!
That’s it for now. Part two of Brian’s work, focusing on three other photographs I enjoy, will be tomorrow!
Do you have your own photographs that explore color and line? Email me at darkroomdreams@gmail.com and I’ll post them!
Related Links:
- Check out Brian’s camera. I want one!
- And his preferred lens. Very long name for a very awesome tool.
- There’s lots more to learn about the Salem lighthouse! For instance, that it’s actually called the Derby Wharf Lighthouse.
Gorgeous! good luck to you both.
Elaine
Thanks!!!