ESSAY ABOUT THE TERROR

This is an old photograph, taken in 2006 perhaps. Hidden between inert

attempts, suddenly she explodes again.

I remember this one Sweid (or another from the seris) and notably how someone criticized the shadow which is an integral part of the composition. Without any doubt it adds to the mystery and contemplative stance of the model. I remain intrigued by the "rules" that people refer to in photography, yet no one is able to tell me who wrote them or where they are situated. Of course common sense and good taste must preside, but I don't believe that photography can be ruled by dogma and design.

I will not harp any longer on the story-line that dominates your images or the ability to say so much with so little, this photo is no exception and contains a wealth of information if one takes the trouble to look. I always liked it and still do, one cannot tire of them easily given the subtlety of your works (unlike many of mine, without doubt).

I see a lot of you in your photos as storyteller and your models feel as if they are phrases or ideas within that story rather than simply objects to be adored.

The darker shadows on her upper body are almost like a veil, adding mystery and a sensuality that is subdued and thoughtful.

The shadow on the wall is an extension into the realm of the imaginative.

Sweid.  It is new for me and dramatic.  I love the diagonal flow culminating in that beautiful shadow.  I also like the tonal range in the skin against the high contrast in the rest of the image.  Very cool.  Dana...

Years ago, at H., one night we had a delightful conversation about photography, you and I agreed that rules are done to be broken, because generally rules are created to reorder the world in a less dangerous place, a more predictable life at all. Clearly a way to get the control, of course. Then, we have rules for everything and everyone. Nothing more far away from art. Well, I'm being a bit pretentious, I know.

You're right, this photo is part of a series, the other is a zoom on her back, and the other a high key attempt. This one is an original full frame, only converted to BW. Now, several years after this session, I'm thinking that I must call this model for another session. She is the artist here, not me of course! Thank you very much John.

Fred

You have a sharpened mind, you can read beyond the images as well. I confess that this was my dream from my youth, to be a storyteller, a writer indeed, with words and/or with images. Today the dream has gone, I keep mi will only, my writings sleeping in a dark drawer, and my camera waiting for my pretentious sessions. This whole series tries to say something about the human nature, the pain, despair, happiness, and solitude. About the shadows (my obsession), shadows are alive, they are a part indivisible of ourselves, shadows come with us to everywhere, sometimes at the front, sometimes behind us, and always silent, and alive. Fascinating. Thank you very much Fred.

Dana

Dramatic, you're right, that was the intention for all the series. And she is a fantastic model, an actress I should say, performing the character and the mood with high emotional intensity, as you can see. About the shadows, as I said to Fred, they are more important than expected. Again, my obsession.

Thank you a lot Dana.

A really nice shot: a very elegant pose, good use of light and shadows, a very nice B/W conversion. Compliments.

Tante grazie Mau! I'm flattered with your words.

Muchas gracias!