Exploring Medium Format Photography

During my MA I intend to explore medium format photography and see what it can offer my practice, particularly my portrait technique. I have acquired a new medium format camera and have been using it for a week now. It always take me a bit of time to get used to a new machine, operating the camera is still not intuitive and I have to think before I press the trigger. I’m also getting used to what the camera can acheive. At the moment this is interupting the flow of working with a subject and making a portrait that I’m pleased with. The only way to get over this is to practice, practice, practice!

The first image was a dive into depth of field. I’ve found it useful to practice on landscapes which have ‘staggered’ layers.

Warde - Heddon’s Mouth 2023

I initially notice that the fine detail is much clearer than with my previous camera. There is a greater depth of field allowing for a more pronounced bouquet. Any f-stop misdemeanors will be difficult to hide. Its very easy to overexpose the sky though, maybe earlier or later in the day would have been more effective in this shot.

Warde - Painter on New Years Day 2023

I’m interested in how a square frame will change my relationship with composition. I have found this a challenge so far, particularly in the positioning of the subject. My eye is trained in a 35 mm format and I subconsciously apply the rule of two thirds without even thinking about it. I don’t just want to ‘place’ the subject in the centre, I’d like to think more creatively about it. I think I’ve successfully managed this in the above portrait, this works because there are leading lines of interest behind the painter.

Warde - Martha and Unicorn 2023

The image above was my first attempt at a portrait for my proposed Final Major Project (FMP). I have noticed that using a shallow depth of field makes the subject ‘pop’ forward, but it can make the face appear too flat. I will move forward by experimenting with more dramatic light sources. Otherwise, I am pleased with the composition and the storytelling signifiers. More work to be done though!