Urgent Update: A new video project from photographer O’Nions is captivating audiences as it explores the art of black and white photography amidst the vibrant autumn colors of a forest. This visually stunning journey, released just hours ago, captures a quiet morning in peak color, challenging conventional choices and pushing creative boundaries.
O’Nions, using his Bronica medium format camera, has embarked on a long-term project that spans 12 months. The aim? To create a compelling series of square black and white images that reveal the intricate details of nature. In a striking decision, he opts to avoid color film entirely, emphasizing the importance of tone and structure instead.
The video showcases O’Nions meticulously metering light, accepting 15-second exposures at f/16, and focusing on the subtle interplay between bark textures and shadows. As he navigates the familiar landscape, he grapples with the challenges of composition, testing various lenses to achieve his vision.
In a fascinating moment, he attempts to recreate a beloved frame featuring a central stump, only to find that branches obstruct his previous viewpoint. Switching to a Bronica 40mm Zenzanon lens, he discovers a shift in balance that alters the entire composition. The scene transforms, with the cut stump dominating the frame, highlighting the impact of lens choice on visual storytelling.
O’Nions also shares insights into the technical aspects of his craft. He contrasts the long shutter speeds of his Bronica with those of a Hasselblad system, noting that timed 16-second exposures free him from the hassle of holding a cable release during inclement weather. This practical information resonates with both amateur and seasoned photographers alike.
As light conditions change, O’Nions shifts his focus to smaller elements within the forest, such as broken branches and smaller stumps, employing his standard lens at f/22 for 8-to-16-second exposures. This marks a shift from grand compositions to intimate details, emphasizing texture and shape over sweeping vistas.
The project is not just a collection of images; it represents a thoughtful exploration of the forest’s essence, merging macro details with larger structural shots. O’Nions candidly evaluates his work, acknowledging that not every frame holds equal value. He openly critiques one ultra-wide shot as the weakest of the day, demonstrating his commitment to quality over quantity in his artistic journey.
Viewers are encouraged to delve into the video for an in-depth look at O’Nions’ process, including the contact sheet style results that reveal which ideas will warrant further exploration. His methodical approach underscores the notion that photography is as much about the journey as it is about the final image.
This project’s emotional depth and technical precision make it a must-watch for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. O’Nions’ commitment to capturing the forest over time, through a black and white lens, challenges viewers to reconsider their own artistic choices and the narratives behind their work.
Stay tuned for more updates on O’Nions’ progress as he continues to document this evolving project, offering a unique perspective on the interplay between light, composition, and nature.
