Art and photography have always been closely linked. In a recent studio session with model Craig, I explored that connection directly. The starting point was a painting by John Singer Sargent.
For anyone unfamiliar with his work, Sargent was an American expatriate artist known for expressive portraits, with a distinctive use of light, colour and composition.
One of his portraits has always fascinated me: “Dr Samuel Jean Pozzi at Home.” Painted in 1881, it shows Dr Pozzi, a leading French gynaecologist and society figure, in a striking scarlet dressing gown. The composition, the reds and the subject’s gaze make it a masterwork.
For a fuller look at the painting, I recommend the YouTube video by “Great Art Explained“. It was the springboard for my session with Craig, where the goal was a triptych, a set of three related works meant to be seen together.
The shoot was not an imitation of Sargent’s painting but an effort to translate its essence into modern portrait photography. The portraits of Craig were built to echo the intensity of Dr Pozzi while letting Craig’s own character show.
Working with Craig is always a pleasure. His professional manner and lively personality add depth to every session.
Lighting did much of the work. Using broad lighting with a grid on the softbox, I could control the light and bring in a chiaroscuro style, with strong contrast between light and dark, echoing the original painting while adding my own perspective.
Using art as a starting point is a rewarding way to work. This shoot is the first of a two-part series inspired by John Singer Sargent’s paintings, so there is more to come.