Thanks D
I did compose this shot, but did not have any forethought as such into any hidden meaning, and to be quite honest am honoured that it provoked you in such a way. To me if it looks "right" then I am happy with it. If it "feels" right even better. This was a contestant in a bikini competition, and I liked the way the light illuminated her hair. As far as the background was concerned this was a music video playing on a big screen. My girlfriend wanted me to photoshop out the screen of the man but I felt it added to the image so left it there. I am sorry to say this was more of an accident in some ways to have the man in the background as being a video and the fact I did not notice it till I got home it could well have been anything. I wish I could say otherwise but all I composed was her and the light, in fact their was a bar full of people, the music was really loud and she was waiting for the next round to start when I ordered her to sit still while I jostled a few patrons out of the way so as the light fully illuminated her head.
Again to think that this provoked thought in one person at least is great, and makes learning the art of photography that much more enjoyable. Thanks for your comments.
Richard Adams
Richard,
This image is indeed interesting...and it has me comming back to decipher it...it has a feel to it... I was recently at a Museum where they had works by a contemporary indian Artist Nalani Melani ... She had a very interesting segment on the male gaze ... and described the female back as a target for the male gaze (as a female in India she explores this naked female back as a statement for the gender bias and male gaze in her art)... It is something that the male can see and "look at" without any "rejection" by the female. A lot of art focuses on the naked female back and it reminds me of the Degas paintings of the female form (Degas may have been making statements about the male gaze and the state of affairs in the day). This image, although I'm not sure whether you intended it, or not, brings out a lot of interesting thoughts in my mind...and I have had quite a time trying to come up with my own interpretation of this art (whether you indended a deeper message or not....I think the picture contains an element(s) of depth)... I think that is what appeals to me. There is the "screen" with a male face...almost an expression of rejection...the female has an air of control over the situation...very confident and seemingly knows what is happening, with the photographer capturing the traditional statement of the "male gaze"...It is almost as though he is captor to her and she has defied his male gaze...she has turned the tables on him thgough some means...and he is nolonger capable of the male gaze (his eyes are shut???)...I think, there is a lot that can be read into this photo as a viewer...and as such give you props. Whether you intended the interpretation or not...thanks...because you've made me think back a little to the gender expression and tension in a lot of art...If it was intended....I'd be interested to hear your intents...
