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Phil Douglis | all galleries >> Galleries >> Gallery Thirty Six: Adding or subtracting context to clarify or extend meaning > Footprints, Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, Florence, Oregon, 2006
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11-JUN-2006

Footprints, Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, Florence, Oregon, 2006

I found myself looking for human values in a sand dune, generally perceived as subject matter for a landscape photograph. I found those human values best represented by the footsteps of a photographer who had preceded me. Once I began photographing the footprints, they became my subject, and the sand dune became my context. Before this day is out, those chaotic, meandering footprints will fill with sand and vanish forever. But the dunes will remain. This image may speak of man’s temporary mark upon on nature, yet in the end, nature will prevail.

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Phil Douglis28-Jun-2006 22:12
I often try to make lemonade out of lemons, Iris. Thanks for caring, and for your thoughts on the nature of nature.
Iris Maybloom (irislm)28-Jun-2006 21:10
I have heard so many photographers bemoan the presence of footprints on dunes, but you have used those very footprints to make a statement. This is what sets your photography apart. Because these footprints are temporary, it does, as you've said, speak to man's transitory role vis-a-vis nature, with nature prevailing. However, it can also speak to the indifferent and deleterious impact man has had on nature, the footprints disrupting the pristineness of the dunes. In the end, will nature still prevail? I hope so.
Phil Douglis19-Jun-2006 18:08
I like the way you have broadened this image to embrace life as journey, Xin. As for the sky, it was flat and added nothing to the message I was trying to express. So I only imply the sky and filled the frame nearly to the top with the dune. The only time I will use a significant amount of sky in my frame is when the sky itself is part of the idea I am expressing.
Sheena Xin Liu19-Jun-2006 14:15
This image leaves people so much space for imaginations, Phil. It seems to me indicating the human being extends their journey to every piece of land, including those places devoid of liveness . Technically, I like this composition a lot. The sky only takes a small portion but the majority of the picture is occupied by sand dune and wild grass. This creates more compelling visual impact.
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