Influence

noun

the capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behaviour of someone or something, or the effect itself.

As I wandered around the snowy fields on Saturday with my camera in my hands I focused on the shapes of the trees inspired by the amazing work of German photographer, Holger Mischke.

Another photographer who’s work I admire is Jane Bown. Sadly Jane passed away over six years ago now, but thankfully we have over six decades of her work for The Observer to enjoy.

Jane famously stuck to one camera make and model from the 1970s, the Olympus OM-1 35mm. She also used the back of her hand as a light meter and shot portraits usually at 1/60sec, f2.8. This practical approach to settings and gear freed her attention so she could focus on her subject with shoots often lasting only twenty to thirty minutes.

That’s really what I love most about Jane’s portraits, they were made fuss free, capturing the sitter’s personality using just natural light and a camera she knew inside out.

I use a Canon 5D Mark iii with 50mm Sigma Art lens and that’s it. That’s my kit. I might add, just like Jane, my camera was purchased secondhand.

#ignitingcreativitychallenge 14th - 21st Feb

Theme: You Are Not Alone

Challenge: Use one main subject