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I am not now, nor will I probably ever be, one of those technically driven
photographers. For the most part I utilize common tools like the normal lens,
or the square format, and the most simple but effective lighting. I’m
comfortable knowing that what runs my picture comes from my imagination, not
from some tool that’s simply expensive or exclusive. I don’t spend
a lot of time looking for new tools because I am busy trying to make the ideas
new and the ground they grow from...more fertile.
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Santa
Fe, New Mexico, June 2004 Amanda sat for a relaxed portrait in
between the 20 or so portraits that my lighting class made of
her during the day. The “Lensbaby” definitely offered
something a little
different than what everyone else got.
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When I do find a new tool, I integrate it into my visual vocabulary by aligning
it with an idea that I am, most often, already investigating or even struggling
with. In truth, tools do influence my ideas and can solve problems. I am always
open to an invitation to discover the limits of a camera or lens and for them
to reveal my limits to me. My equipment is the equivalent of the artist’s
brush, the writer’s pen, or the musicians violin. I have to practice visual
scales and perform regularly to get better. This brings a momentum and knowledge
and experience to the work.
You just read a lot of words that attempt to describe my methodology. My system
is based on my interests, investigation and fascination with idea, vision and
craft that borders on obsession and is eternally coupled with a deceptively
simple looking process. I will utilize anything to get there and once again
I think I might have found a new tool.
My friend, Dan Burkholder, showed me something that he has been experimenting
with lately called a “Lensbaby” (www.lensbaby.com).
Sometimes I am completely surprised by what a new tool can awaken in my imagination.
The “Lensbaby” is approximately a 50mm lens with a mount that fits
on most of the popular 35mm cameras. There is no focus ring, and the barrel
of the lens looks like a jack-in-the-box. You can move the front element back
and forth to focus and bend it around to selectively focus. It invites one to
explore frame and focus in some of the same ways you did when you first picked
up a camera. More importantly, it reminds one to think creatively and visually,
not just cerebrally. You can be a photographic explorer again. With this tool
the only mistake you could make would be not to play.
These days I am attempting some large-format portraits that exhibit a thoughtful
or intentional looking quality. One reason they look so formal is due to the
slow-working camera. On the other hand, in my 35mm work I am trying to imbue
these photographs with a more spontaneous and less formal look and style. The
“Lensbaby” pushes me to think outside all the boxes. The 50mm is
a view I’m familiar with and appreciate. When using the “Lensbaby”
it’s kind of a 50mm on fire.
Dennis Keeley has worked as an artist, teacher, photographer and writer for
over 20 years, specializing in portraiture.
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