Narrative Portraiture: On Location in New York with Rodney Smith

Chris Orwig travels to New York to visit with photographer Rodney Smith. Get insights into portraiture and the importance of creating photos that tell stories and ask questions.

Welcome

• Welcome
• Introduction to Rodney Smith

1. Interview with Rodney Smith

• Creating serene photographs...spontaneously
• Creating photographs that ask questions
• What makes a photograph good?
• Film, digital, and the importance of the artifact
• Contrast, tone, and black and white versus color
• The early years and photography today

2. Inside Rodney Smith's Studio

• First impressions: A portrait without the subject
• The finishing room
• The darkroom
• The final print room

3. Photographing a Portrait of Rodney Smith

• Selecting the gear
• Shooting the portrait
• Reviewing the plan for the shoot
• The portrait in review
• Large prints in review

4. The Artifact

• Why take pictures?
• Cultivating the discipline to print
• Exploring Rodney Smith's "The End"

5. Assignment Ideas

• Embracing a theme: Surprise, whimsy, or cliché
• Creating photos that ask questions
• Creating fashion photos with a unique style

6. Reflections on a Conversation with Rodney Smith

• Photography is a reflection of who we are
• Photography is about the art of observation
• Working with models
• Raise more questions than you answer
• Mentors strengthen our vision
• There is a right place for certain things
• What influences you?
• The camera as a tool for gaining wisdom
• Creating photographs deepens who we are

Conclusion

• Conclusion