Contextual Influences

This week I was introduced to the work of Robert Mapplethorpe through this image, i really find this a strange image to look at because at first glance it just looks like your everyday fashion image, until you look closer and realise how hench and manly the model is posing, she looks like shes ready to get in a boxing ring, its not very flattering....

 

I was also shown this image by Richard Billingham, my teacher told me that the story behind the picture is that it was taken by a lower class student wo was studying at a high end university, and he was told to photograph his family, so he ended up with this picture which really shocked his peers and teachers, because their not used to seeing people living in these conditions. Well coming from someone who hasn't come from a well off background I can honestly say im not used to seeing people living in these conditions, this picture is completely revolting! The fact that anybody lives in these conditions is a complete joke, it has nothing to do with class or money in my oppinion, its just a matter of personal hygiene....

I really like this image by Annie leibovits, it was created for a "Once Upon A Time" photo spread in vogue, i really like the fantasy element in the image feel like it really tells a story through just one shot. The work of Annie Leibovits really inspires me, she is one of my favourite photographers, the images she creates are just breathtaking....

Ellen Von Unworth is one of my favourite fashion photographers, she is known for her way of creating images that celebrate women and sensuality. I love the way she makes women look effortlessly attractive, she often photographs them in simple settings but creates something that is so full of glamour and style....

Looking through the portfolio of Mario Testino it would be hard not to find your favourite famous face somewhere, he is one of the most celebrated fashion photogrophers in history, known for creating images that are stylish, slick and sexy all rolled into one. My personal favourite image of his is the image of Giselle that i have attatched, it is complete perfection, it has just the right amount of style, edgyness and subtilty for a fashion shot....