Primary Research - The Radical Eye Exhibition:

I visited the exhibition of Elton John's photography collection at the Tate Modern as primary research for my collection, I found a variety of artists who use both natural and artificial light to change the effect of their photography. 

Edward Steichen (1879- 1973):

'Gloria Swanson,' 1924 - What interested my about this photograph was the use of lace to create a high contrast within the composition and how this emphasised the model's features. 

'Matches and Matchboxes,' 1927 - The use of shadow within this composition intrigued me as they create a second layer of detail but in an ambiguous sense, therefore creating a deeper interest from me as a viewer. 

Man Ray (1890 - 1976): 

'Dora Maar,' 1936 - The overexposure of this photography creates an interesting effect as it makes a simple image become quite sinister, completely changing the 'normal' meaning of a portrait.

Frederick Sommer (1905-1999):

'Max Ernst,' 1946 - This photograph amazed me as the early use of double exposure created texture through the contrast of shade from the wall to the man. 

Gordon Coster (1906–1988):

'Experimental photograph,' - The technique used within this photograph is called 'solarisation,' I found the effect interesting as it changes the mood of the image through the distortion of the model's face.

Jaromir Funke (1896–1945):

'Photographic Construction' - The use of light to create shape is interesting within this image, I also thought about the difference that colour photography would make to this situation if it were taken now - the glass box would probably work as a prism, creating a rainbow of light.

Werner Mantz (1901-1983):

'Staircase,' 1928 - The gradual change into darkness creates a sense of mystery within this photograph, this is emphasised by the viewpoint of the photo.

Herbet List (1903 - 1975):

'Nocturnal Wall,' 1930 - The shadows in the background of the photograph create leading lines towards the model, drawing attention to the model's face. 

Johan Hagemeyer (1884-1962):

'Untitled,' 1921 (printed in 1948) - the light and shadow through blinds creates a frame for the model's main features on her face.

Norman Parkinson (1913-1990):

'After the shower,' 1947 - The light reflecting from the puddles creates patterns on the ground, an interesting effect as each individual who looks at it will see different shapes.