p.1 #1 · Post Your "Expression/Reaction WITH CONTEXT" Photos:
I started a topic a few days ago and got some interesting responses about taking photos showing only expressions and photos with expressions that included the context.
I'm curious to see all of your photos that show an expression/reaction of a subject that include the reason as to why they are expressing/reacting.
(the last one may be the weakest without context... but I just really like the look on the friends face as the mother (bride) and daughter see each other for the first time that day)
p.1 #10 · Post Your "Expression/Reaction WITH CONTEXT" Photos:
As it seems nobody wants to follow Tony, I’ll take one for the team...I’m feeling tough today, and I’m celebrating finally being out of the weeds after an insane couple of months
Number two may not seem like much, but you had to see this kid. He was a total clown and the absolute life of the party, but when it was time for his job as ring bearer, he was clearly in awe of the role - and of the commanding presence of the officiant. I love the expression on his sweet little face.
I hope more people jump in, as I am eager to see more! This is, hands down, my favorite kind of image - and even though I haven’t successfully executed many myself, your images serve as awesome inspiration.
p.1 #12 · Post Your "Expression/Reaction WITH CONTEXT" Photos:
I agree with Evan, Chuck. That first one is brilliant. It accomplishes everything at once-complex and yet simple and visual separation allows for two distinct but related layers.
Also love your number 4. That is a well-executed shot and easy to overlook.
BK, absolutely love number 2. That one pulled me in right away.
p.1 #18 · Post Your "Expression/Reaction WITH CONTEXT" Photos:
There's a definite misconception about these types of images: namely, that good documentary photography involves an isolated expression. There are times where that may be true. But some of the most compelling documentary work is layered. It utilizes the environment (whether that be objects or people) to help interpret the scene rather than isolate the subject from it. What makes Chuck's work so compelling is the fact that his images set a scene. They are not merely of a smiling bride or a dancing couple. Those are nice and there is a place for them but setting a scene requires more thoughtful work. A more thoughtful image might show the smiling bride amidst her adoring family or a dancing couple surrounded by adoring guests, their expressions tied to the moment.
For those who are looking to take your images to that more thoughtful level, I'd suggest studying the work of Sam Abell, Sebastiao Salgado, and Robert Frank, to name a few.
