This was a photo I took right after I moved out of my house in Arroyo Vista because of Covid. In addition to just being a distinct memory in itself, what makes observing this photo so meaningful for me includes the shadows of the trees and its relation to the shapes and colors of the environment surrounding it. I felt that its contrasting visual qualities played such a large role in representing the story of this photo.
The elongated shadows of the tree trunks and its splattering of branches and leaves onto the buildings appear to have many different shades, values, and levels of sharpness that give its appearance a distorted effect. With the creamy tan of the buildings and the rich blueness of the sky, the colors of a crisp, Southern California afternoon gives me an impression of serenity and longing; I feel this is particularly also a result of the distortion of the shadows at the center of the photo. Moreover, combining the silhouettes of the figures at the bottom of the photo tie in this sense of ambiguity of the unknown. It makes me feel like many experiences and memories were cherished at this location, but also there is a feeling of desolation attached to it.
This photo inspires me because it makes me realize that shadows, and particularly the texture and shape of those shadows, have the ability to represent meaningful stories and evoke deep feelings. Especially when contrasted with vibrant colors and geometric shapes in the background, the qualities of shadows have a significant amount of character on an images composition. It makes me think of how texture in theatrical lighting should always have a deeper purpose and meaning for the story and aren't merely used just to have a "cool effect" on the stage. In other words, shadows are pretty rad.
Very nice analysis and connection to the image - you are also inadvertently talking about scenic design with the structures and how thw light falls on them :)
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