I'd like feedback (good OR bad) on this series of experimental images. All were taken in Eastern State Penitentiary some time ago. The building is now more or less in ruins, but the aged jail cells offer so much in the way of character.
Given the wonderful patina I wanted to really highlight the colors, and instead of producing something dark & dreary bring out something that gives a different perspective.
This is not typically my style, but something I thought worth trying for the sake of experimentation & growth.
Thoughts? Hate/love? Are there any you particularly enjoy or dislike?
ALL feedback and discussion on this is appreciated. As always, ALL opinions are valid and respected, none can be wrong. I fully expect mixed reactions.
I'd say mission accomplished. The images are not what I would expect given the nature of the location. Love the color of the red barber's chair and the green cart against the otherwise dilapidated surroundings. The furniture illustrates that life happened here at some point and without it these cells could have been the dark and dreary shots you wanted to avoid.
I'm reminded of a documentary about a prison was designed to let light come in from above so that inmates could seek penitence for their crimes. A quick search confirms this is that prison. I love that you made the effort to capture the so-called "Light of God" in all the cell shots.
I've always liked this type of photography, "architectural decay" photography? This could be a very difficult style of pull off as people are typically on tours and have to "keep moving". My favorite is number 5 where it is just the stool(?) in the room. What a fascinating place to visit.
Thanks Joe, ESP is definitely worth a visit, but I’d recommend taking a tripod and trying to visit at quieter times.
Interesting you picked out #5 as I was initially drawn to the solitary aspect of this and feel perhaps it best conveys confinement.
My daughter used to live a few blocks away near the Francisville recreation site. when I was there a few years ago with a G+ group, I shot B&W film, which seemed more appropriate than color. Some of your shots and mine are really very similar except for that. (This is not a criticism, just an observation.)
Yeah, great old places. I see the B&W angle as a different perspective (to capture texture), but in this instance was attracted by the patina.
Both can work and have their own attractions.
Thanks for your input Andrew.
I do think they're great especially #5 and 7. The one with people though, not so much.
I agree with the people comment Charles - I'd love to reshoot when empty (and with a tripod....)..
Thanks for the feedback.