Group Research Activity

Edward Weston, Pepper #30, silver gelatin photograph, 23.7 x 18.9 cm, 1930

1. The class will form 7 groups of 3. Each group will be assigned a photographer from the following list - Max Dupain, David Moore, Roger Fenton, Adolphe Meyer, Imogen Cunningham, Edward Weston, and Paul Strand.

2. These photographers all represent objects and still life compositions in their photographs, using light and shadow to describe the form of an object. In groups investigate examples of how your assigned photographer has used light and shadow in their still life works.

3. In your group have a collaborative discussion, analysing how your photographer's use of lighting and composition has achieved certain effects. Consider how different lighting and composition communicates mood and atmosphere. Does it create a sense of mystery or disorientation? Does it use silhouette? Does it describe form? Where is the light coming from? Is the light hard or soft?

4. Individually select a still life work by your group's assigned photographer. Choose a work that uses light in an interesting way - a way that you could use in your own work - and write a paragraph discussing the work, it's lighting, mood, and how you think it was achieved (minimum of 50 words).
Post this on your blog along with the photograph you are discussing. Remember to include a citation for the photograph.