In the world of photography, inspiration can stem from the most unexpected sources. Recently, my partner and fellow photographer, Nikki Carmela, and I had the pleasure of conducting a shoot with the incredibly talented model Syd. We blended two seemingly disparate yet profoundly evocative influences: Vincent van Gogh’s “Skeleton Smoking a Cigarette” and the iconic “Twilight Zone” episode, “Beauty is in the Eye of the Beholder.”
The conceptual framework for this shoot was deeply rooted in the macabre and surreal, a nod to van Gogh’s haunting depiction of mortality and the eerie, thought-provoking narrative of “The Twilight Zone.” “Skeleton Smoking a Cigarette” reflects van Gogh’s exploration of life and death with a raw, unfiltered gaze. Meanwhile, “Beauty is in the Eye of the Beholder” challenges societal perceptions of beauty, presenting a world where normalcy is subjective and beauty is truly in the eye of the beholder.
Our home studio was transformed into a dreamscape where these themes could collide. The choice of equipment was deliberate: we used a Nikon F4s, a camera renowned for its robust build and precise functionality. Paired with Kodak Pro Image 100 film, known for its fine grain and vibrant color reproduction, we aimed to capture every nuance of our intricate setup.
Syd’s portrayal was a blend of haunting elegance and unsettling beauty. We draped the studio in shadows and soft light, creating an atmosphere that felt both timeless and otherworldly. The skeletal makeup, meticulously applied, echoed van Gogh’s morbid subject while Syd’s expressive gaze captured the essence of “The Twilight Zone” episode – questioning conventional beauty and exploring deeper truths.
Shooting on film, especially with the Nikon F4s, brought an authenticity to the project that digital photography often lacks. Each shot required careful consideration of composition and lighting, ensuring that every frame was intentional and evocative. Kodak Pro Image 100’s color palette beautifully complemented our vision, with its ability to render skin tones naturally and handle contrasting elements adeptly.
The results were nothing short of mesmerizing. The images captured a haunting beauty, with Syd embodying the essence of our dual inspirations. The juxtaposition of the skeletal elements with their expressive features challenged the viewer to confront their perceptions of beauty, much like the “Twilight Zone” episode.
This shoot was a testament to the power of blending diverse artistic influences to create something unique and compelling. Working with Nikki Carmela was an absolute joy; her ability to convey complex emotions and narratives through her expressions added profound depth to the images. Shooting on film in our home studio brought a tactile, deliberate process to the project, reminding me of the timeless quality and unmatched depth that film photography offers.
In conclusion, this shoot was more than just a creative endeavor; it was an exploration of themes that resonate deeply with the human experience. It was a reminder that beauty, art, and photography are boundless, ever-evolving fields that continually challenge us to see the world through new lenses.
