There were two other portraits’ which I took for this assignment. However, after some consideration, I didn’t feel they were suitable for the final series, and I’ll explain my reasons why.
I decided to exclude this particular portrait from the final selection, simply because it’s very similar to that of image four, and isn’t as visually strong in regards to the photographic elements depicted. Yes, it has leading lines, depth, strong composition and placement of the subject – even symmetry. But, placed side by side with image four, it’s evident that these elements don’t create the same impact. Also, the juxtaposition I was trying to achieve between the ‘indoors’ and ‘outdoors’ isn’t apparent, and as a result, isn’t in line with the other portraits’.
I knew almost immediately after photographing this subject that his portrait would not be included in the final selection. Throughout, I felt incredibly rushed – more so than the others – as surprisingly, there was a steady flow of individuals’ walking on the pavement directly behind me. I believe this affected my process, and rather than looking into how I could incorporate the required elements within the image, I was rushing to take photographs, with little thought about the end result. It’s evident that almost none of the elements I hoped to include, are present.
Iain Barbour - BA (Hons) Photography 