BlackSlate
08/04/2005, 09:23 AM
I have found that sometimes the definition of what is a "Still Life" can be confusing. I have seen contests that depicted animals, landscapes, etc., as Still Lifes.
Generally, the definition that I have used is more like "a method of studio or outdoor photography where objects are pre-arranged to be photographed." And, "inanimate subject, either in the studio, or outdoors, normally arranged to make full use of form, shape and lighting."
The key here is "arranged," "inanimate" and "lighting." Flowers arranged in a vase are a Still Life, but flowers out in a field is not. You can find inanimate objects artistically arranged outdoors, but showing clouds in the background I think disqualifies the shot as a Still Life. In other words "still" doesn't just mean "not moving." :)
I thought I would bring it up because even though I'm not a stickler for a strict interpretation of a Theme, it makes it easier to vote and judge when everyone is on the same page. I think Still Lifes are the most artisitic type of photography and would like to see everyone's best efforts and not just some snapshots of something that is "still."
Feel free to disagree or further explain what is a "Still Life" to you. :)
Generally, the definition that I have used is more like "a method of studio or outdoor photography where objects are pre-arranged to be photographed." And, "inanimate subject, either in the studio, or outdoors, normally arranged to make full use of form, shape and lighting."
The key here is "arranged," "inanimate" and "lighting." Flowers arranged in a vase are a Still Life, but flowers out in a field is not. You can find inanimate objects artistically arranged outdoors, but showing clouds in the background I think disqualifies the shot as a Still Life. In other words "still" doesn't just mean "not moving." :)
I thought I would bring it up because even though I'm not a stickler for a strict interpretation of a Theme, it makes it easier to vote and judge when everyone is on the same page. I think Still Lifes are the most artisitic type of photography and would like to see everyone's best efforts and not just some snapshots of something that is "still."
Feel free to disagree or further explain what is a "Still Life" to you. :)