Venus Recumbent - A Nude

Nude photography provides a unique set of challenges, not the least of which is the fine-line distinction between beauty and vulgarity, so easy to cross in posing a model. A hand in one position may be discreet; shifted an inch to the side, it may become distastefully suggestive. The graceful lines of the recumbent form can convey anything from sultry seductiveness to shy revelation. As one artist put it, what is not seen tantalizes the imagination. Uncovered, it is only exposition for exposition's sake.

Given my model's limitations, I have tried to create that which makes classic nudes something which can be admired even by those with the most Victorian morals. If you're looking for porn, just keep walking. Nothing here for you to see.

Still Life With Onions

 

There is a lot of debate over what constitutes a "still life," and I hold with the traditional definition which specifies that still-life compositions must contain for the most part inanimate objects such as fruits or vegetables, flowers, other foodstuffs such as bread, shells, vases, pottery, jewelry and so forth, and must exclude animate beings (people, dogs, cats, birds, etc.). 

Still lifes afford the artist/photographer a superb medium in which to practice composition. There should be a visual flow connecting the elements, the eye travelling from one to another with relatively equal attention given to each piece. Almost without exception, the composition should be balanced but not symmetrical, and the lighting should appear as natural as possible. Distractions should be kept to a minimum. Although many still lifes are colorful, they can also be executed quite effectively in monochrome. In fact, I prefer this high-contrast image to the original color shot.