Foreword

Obscure Refraction is a collection of image stories that explores the ways in which light interacts and reacts with both the body and specifically the different materiality I am using in my studio practice. Throughout the 3 series of images, I experimented with different light sources and photographic processes, using a wide range of post-production techniques in order to highlight this interaction.

All three photo series explore a completely unique depiction of light through a wide variety of photographic techniques and image making processes. Through light projections, reflections and blur, the body and materiality behave in a unique and awe-inspiring way through an obscure refraction of light.

01 PROJECT | The focus of this photo series is of the use of projected imagery onto the body and the ways in which the form distorts both image and light. My aim is to show how the body contorts the projected light, almost becoming part of the image. One of the most important aspects of this photo series is the use of colour so I utilized a variety of postproduction methods in each

image in order to enhance and bring out the colour. I also experimented with gradient maps, the liquify tool and creative image adjustments in order to create a series of striking, bold and slightly trippy images.

02 REFLECT | This photo series examines a key material I am using in my studio practice: repurposed offcuts from reflective tags. The reflective nature of the materiality means it interacts with light in a very unique and striking way. Flash was used to capture each of these images and minimal post-production has been applied so that the materiality is shown in its truest form. Because of the use of flash, it was hard to capture much movement, so I had to use the material strategically in order to demonstrate the ways in which it behaves when in motion on the body. 03 BLUR | This photo series explores the properties of another key material I am using in my studio practice: repurposed CDs. The way light reflects off the material causes the image to become distorted and warped and I have used a wide variety of postproduction techniques to enhance this. Specifically, I used layering, liquifying, gradients and creative colour grading in order to create beautiful, dream-like images. My aim was to create a series that was both ambiguous and eye-catching, drawing the viewer in, but never giving them quite enough to ascertain the subject of the image.