Photography Project Research: David Bailey

On this post I will analyze the work of David Bailey, one of my references for my final photography. Bailey gained notoriety for his unique style of natural portraiture, which showed subjects as actual individuals with personalities which he connected with and understood instead of as stiff mannequins. He permanently changed the image, reputation, and function of models everywhere. His work as a photographer for Jean Shrimpton was essential in the creation of the "supermodel."( Geffin, 2014).  According to Cook (2014) Bailey gained notoriety for being the one who popularized the 'look' of the 1960s, which marked an important shift from the muted images of the 1950s. "His style was fresh and informal, he made fashion photography seem fun and daring" ( Cook 2014). "I never cared about the clothes that much. If the girls looked good, and looked happy in what they were wearing, that would sell the dresses" (Bailey, 2014).

David Bailey Self Portrait

On this self-portrait Bailey used a low angle and middle shot to capture him self and the background which is a important part of the final composition. The picture contain interesting edges which gives a interesting flow for the picture. He also explore the concept of triangles and rule of thirds. Moreover, the picture have a high contrast which indicates the use of techniques such as Chiaroscuro. Unlikely Karsh most of Bailey's work including this self-portrait use Light key lighting. 

Evaluation:

For my final photography project I intend  to use some the techniques Bailey used in his portraits such as the poses use to create the composition as well as explore triangles and use rule of thirds. Unlikely Bailey I have a preference for low key lighting once it will help me to convey the message of darkness and existential crisis the main theme of my final work.

Reference List:

Geffin, David. “What We Can Learn from David Bailey’s “Stardust”, One of the Most Important Photographic Exhibitions in Decades.” Fstoppers, 18 June 2014, fstoppers.com/fashion/what-can-learn-david-baileys-stardust-one-most-important-photographic-12323. Accessed 2 Mar. 2024. 

Cook, William. “BBC Arts - BBC Arts - David Bailey’s Stardust: “Everyone’s Got a Story - You Just Have to Find It.”” BBC, 2 July 2015, www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/3xLlr3sfQhgRb0ngHmybHcb/david-baileys-stardust-everyone-s-got-a-story-you-just-have-to-find-it. Accessed 2 Mar. 2024.

Bibliography:

Scott, G., 2010. Conversation between photographer Brian Duffy and Grant Scott.