FIRST SHOOT
The first of a series of shoots inspired by the work of Burnham Arlidge, a photographer I first found on Instagram and have followed for several years.
Researching Burnahm what soon became evident is that while his images were instantly striking and fascination he freely admits that his final images are simply massive Photoshop compilations of up to 50 images combined to create the impression of multiple layers and ghosted characters.
On reflection however I felt it would be interesting to see if this same visual effect and character could be achieved in camera rather than simply by creating a massive collection of layers in Photoshop. Through studying the options available within the Canon 1Dxiii I use I found that it is possible to take multiple exposures on the same frame and within that facility the option to not only adjust the framing and focus of each image I can also change the exposure of each frame individually. This facility enabled me to under expose some frames and over expose other frames to change the emphasis of specific parts of the final image. It also encouraged me to focus on the composition of the image as seen through the camera and as much as possible to create in camera.
Section 1: Introduction
Through the combination of three separate photoshoots I wanted to explore and learn how to create multiple exposure images in camera using techniques and methods developed of film cameras. Inspired by the digital images of Burnham Arlidge I wanted to see if I could create a similar feeling to my images without resorting to massive multi layer photoshop processing which in my opinion is more associated with collage and graphic creation than it is to do with photography.
I want d to experiment with the capture of both still and moving subjects within the multi exposure and each of the three shoots identified the need for different techniques and methods to capture a successful image.
Section 2: Objectives
To study and understand both the mechanics of multiple exposures and the mathematical theory underpinning the calculation of in camera exposure to enable multiple exposure images to be captured/created
Section 3: Methodology (Materials & Methods)
Having researched the calculation of multiple exposure settings as used for the production of large format film cameras I was able to explore the two main methods of multiple exposure image creation . One of these simply exposes the same frame multiple times at a level that would normally be used for a single frame capture the other was more involved and required the calculation of exposure levels that when combined would render the background environment or a single character within that environment in a way that gave emphasis to one part of the image while the other exposures combined to build a series of ghosted layers.
Section 4: Results
The results of the tests as shown in the contact sheets for this shoot quickly demonstrated to me the the first method was not going to work as it inevitably ended up with a massively over exposed image and very little focus. By changing the settings for the various frames I was able to combine layers together to build a readable image and importantly control the eye of the viewer to look where I wanted the focus of the image to be.
Section 5: Critique
It soon became clear to me that combining too many exposure resulted in a muddled and confusing image that lacked any real focus. While doing so would create an effective depiction of movement and energy it became clear that in so doing the focus of the image if there was one would be lost. Ultimately I settled upon 5-7 images combined to create the final image that while having the energy and movement of a Arledge image was more readable.
Section 6: Learning Outcomes
The technique and three shoots produced have given me an understanding of a very old traditional technique but applied and modified to make the most of modern technology. I feel I can use this multiple exposure technique in conjunction with other styles and formats to add a striking and specific quality to my work that would not be otherwise possible without it simply becoming a photoshop exercise with not specific outcome.
