This task started with us choosing an image at random. This then led us to having a number of questions to answer and consider about the image. This enables us to think about the varying possibilities and meanings in regards to the photo and how there isn’t one clear meaning or knowing about it unless we were there. This very much emphasises the idea of ‘a picture is worth a thousand words’.
What time period, decade or year do you think this photograph was created in? What visual cues support your choice?
I feel this image was taken in the later 2000s. This image has a more contemporary and modern look to it, in both the elements on show and the image style and is in colour. It looks like a digitally taken photo rather than the likes of film, which could have had more exposure or visual issues due to film being unpredictable. Despite seeing it as being a more modern image, the reason I do not think it is the present day is due to many cameras and phones having a greater quality and being able to produce a more crisp and sharp image than that above. Leading me to think an early digital camera may have captured this. Aspects are also out of focus or blurred, which also leads on to how the photographer may be inexperienced, a tourist or earlier 2000s than now due to many devices having auto focus. This is also definitley more modern due to the telephone pylons which suggests it is a time where we have working mobile signals.
Where in the world was this photograph taken? Again, please detail your reasons for asserting your choice.
Additionally, I believe the image was taken in an Eastern country, such as China or Japan. There are two main visuals that led me to this choice. The first being the architecture and buildings within. The style of these are very oriental and something you see in Asian culture and design; mostly evident from roof style, the slants, the decorations on top and colour. More so, the golden statue in the centre is something that looks rather regal and important. In Asian and Eastern culture many families and buildings has objects that are respected and important or considered spiritual and shrine-like. It being central and the golden colour further connotes this idea and cultural influence. Lastly, the male in the image also adds to where the image may have been taken. His skin tone is dark which leads to the idea of it being in an Asian or Eastern country, where many who live there are of colour.
In a short paragraph, how would you describe the key visual elements of the photograph? What is contained within the frame?
The main visual elements are the buildings and tents within the image. These give off the feel of significance and regalness; alongside this the tents connote that there may have been a celebration or event happening or one is going to happen and they are setting up (hence the male). This is another key part in Asian countries, the idea of big celebrations and how special milestones are taken to the next level to commemorate them as opposed to Western culture. The other element is the golden statue and male. This could suggest it is of religious purpose and he is having a moment with it or that it is something special and respected.
How is/are the human subject(s) of the photograph engaging with the camera/photographer?
The only human in the image does not seem to be engaging with the photographer or perhaps does not even know they are there. This can clearly be seen by the way his head is slightly tilted down/ looks as if he is focused on something in his hands.
What, if any directions do you think the photographer may have given to the subject(s) of the photograph?
I do not feel the photographer asked them to do anything or gave any directions. I get the vibe that the photographer just wanted it to appear natural and as a candid.
What do you believe the photographer wants, you, the viewer to take from the image?
I believe he wanted to capture and show the beginnings or the end of the event happening. I almost feel as if the photographer was part of the event and wanted to capture some memories of it or wanted to show the extravagance of the location, buildings and statue.
