Doing a deep analysis on images highlights the significance of visual content beyond its surface. By delving into colour choices, composition, symbolism and context, we gain a fuller understanding of the message conveyed, not only the intentional meaning but also the subconscious. images carry layers of meaning, cultural, emotional, historical and psychological, that can be uncovered through a thoughtful approach.
“From Scratch”
This image has been taken from my project on memories, capturing my grandad as he begins to lose them, whilst battling dementia. This set of images highlights the results of age through his wrinkles and features along with hints of his moustache and shirt that embodies his character. Looking further into the image you begin to notice the scratches on his head, one of the symptoms at this stage of his condition is anxiety which he comforts by rubbing and scratching his head. I wanted to capture how his dementia symptoms are leaving visible marks as well as damaging his brain. To control the image as much as possible, I felt the formal setting of a studio was needed, allowing me to control the lighting, pose and angle of the shot to ensure the composition of the photo exceeded what I was looking for. I chose this composition to make sure that it still had an informal touch to keep with the documentary style of the rest of my work.
“caring all her life”
This is another studio shot for my dementia project, this portrays my Nannar and the people she has cared for all her life. First raising her son and now looking after her husband as his dementia worsens. I decided to place my models one behind each other with the main focus being on my Nannar to portray that she is the one holding everything together. My grandads anxiety has led him to rely on my nannar so much that it feels as though his is hiding behind her, my dad is positioned at the back represents how he is trying to be supportive but not be overbearing. I managed to capture a sense of how tired and drained she can be at times.