As many have mentioned, this is one of the most interesting threads for a while and I'm glad Frank brought it up.
My initial reaction was, photography is inherently sexual when pointed at people. How can it not be when it is a single image focused on a subject. It wants me to look and I love that. But I thought about it some more
What I admire about Frank's photographs (and not only his, many others on PDML) is the humanising aspect of them. Those couriers taking risks in traffic, a blur that you try to avoid - he shows them après-couriering. Their bravado and frankly, well-toned bodies, are something to admire. That isn't sexualising. I am admiring their life force
So too with Alina. She is no more a object in front of Bruce's camera than Frank's buddies. When she throws in a gorgeous handstand and writes about herself in such a positive way, you know it is that she is as much co-creator as Bruce, with his consumate command of his skills.
Do I think my photos are objectifying? Perhaps. I never really know these people anywhere like Frank or Bruce. Sometimes, rarely, I have a chat. Mostly it is about the pleasure of observation. Which is why I steered my blurb along this theme of a brief connection. They are no longer just elements in a composition. Wide lens, 2m or less, and I can't help but feel a jolt when they make eye contact. Such a thrilling moment. I really can't pull back from the shot thinking about rules or balance when the chance presents itself, and really couldn't shoot any other way.
-- [email protected] http://members.iinet.net.au/~derbyc -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List [email protected] http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
