Task 1b Evaluating Portrait images

The Godfather

This image by Gordon Willis caught my attention because he used natural light within the room to create a contrast on the subject; it adds emphasis on the character. The furniture placed within the background contains simple lines this represents the perception of distance. The tones within the room are dark and gothic while the subject has a warm tan which creates a contrast between tones and it also adds more emphasis on the subject.  The shapes created by the lighting passing through the visors add a pattern effect.

The untouchables

This image was shot by Stephen. H Burum the first aspect of the image that draws me in is the subject; he is looking directly at the viewer the eye contact invites viewers to take a closer look. Another major factor is the depth of field it frames the subjects makes him look further away from the background.  The colours within the image are earthy and naturalistic this creates a calm environment. Judging by the white glow effect on some of the background subjects the lighting may have been created with natural light.    

Lawless

This is a great shot by Beniot Delomme, the shadow suggests that the image was shot with natural light coming in from a window this effect adds detail. There is also a conflict between dark and pale colours the wall paint is pale while the clothes worn by the subject are dark this creates a contrast it emphasises the subject hinting that he does not belong in that setting. The stripe effect on the subjects clothing adds a pattern effect. His hairstyle and clothing represent a retro them maybe 1920s to 40s. The lines and shapes within the image are bold and angular.

Donnie Brasco

This image was shot by Peter Sova, the subjects are staring into the distance it makes you think what are they viewing? Or what are they thinking about? The lighting was created by natural light on location this creates an even shade of light throughout the image.  Curvaceous lines are created by the graffiti on the wall this may have been used to direct the viewer towards the focal point of this image which is the subjects.  When shooting this image the subjects are positioned within the centre this suggests that rule of thirds was used.

Public Enemies

This image was shot by Dante Spinotti, it is very intimidating because the subject Jonny Depp is holding a Tommy Gun. Similar to the previous image he is looking into the distance this makes the viewer ponder over what he might be thinking or looking at, it forces the viewer to look closely at his facial expressions to try and decipher his thoughts. The contrast between his dark clothing and bright background is very strong it makes the image more eye catching it also suggests that natural light was used on location.  Furthermore depth of field is used to mask off the background this adds more emphasis on the subject by blurring unimportant objects.

Casino

This image was shot by Robert Richardson; it represents the high life achieved by a career of crime, the sunglasses create a black void this pulls viewers in, the reflective effect also adds detail which makes the image more interesting and eye catching. The image was shot on location natural light was used but the strong glow suggests that artificial light may have been used.  Furthermore Depth of Field has been used to blur any unnecessary areas this places more emphasis on the focal point. The vibrant colours reflect a hot summer’s day Moreover the colours are emphasised by the bright lighting.

Goodfellas

This image was captured by Michael Ballhaus,it is a very dark and evil image, he is pointing his gun towards the floor and there are blood stains on the walls the whole frame is hinting towards a murder. He has no facial expressions this is informing the viewer that he has no remourse. Spot metering may have been used because the edges pf the frame have a dark glow. The subject has his arm stretched out this acts as leading lines directing the viewer towards the floor. Natural light has added a bright glow on the back of the subject this stresses his importance.

Gangster squad

This image was created by Dion Beebe, the formal fashion from his classic hairstyle to the suit is flawless, and this flawlessness encourages the viewer to take a closer look to find any mistakes or abnormalities within the image.  Depth of field is used to blur the background this forces the viewer to focus his/her attention directly at the subject. The choreography is telling me that the subject is celebrating he is very happy about something this makes me use my imagination you create scenarios in your mind on the reasons why you think  he is celebrating? The colours are harmonising this creates a balanced image which makes you feel relaxed.