Bird’s Eye View: Exploring New Perspectives in the Fashion District
“Yo, what’s popping people? It’s Dante!”
Today, I’m in the Fashion District Mall here in Philadelphia, a place that’s soon to be the new 76ers Arena. I’m out here capturing moments, but this time, I’m experimenting with a different perspective. Instead of shooting from the ground, I’m taking a bird’s eye view approach, using the light from above to create dynamic shots.
Playing with Light and Shadow
My approach today is simple yet unusual for me—I’m observing the patches of light and waiting for people to step into them, adding a sense of abstract composition. This involves shifting between vertical and horizontal framing and experimenting with how light interacts with the space.
“Depending on the foot traffic and how many people walk in and out of the frame, you can maybe have a more dynamic picture.”
The idea is to capture a single subject at times or sometimes multiple people within the frame, allowing the foot traffic to determine the scene’s dynamics. The result? A more abstract look that focuses on the play of light and shadow.
Trying New Perspectives
This experiment is all about trying new things—I’m exploring the possibilities of different angles and this bird’s eye view. It’s an approach I don’t usually take, but here, it offers a unique opportunity for dynamic shadow play. The high vantage point gives a completely fresh view of the mall’s usual bustling atmosphere.
- Perspective: A bird’s eye view adds an unfamiliar angle to a familiar scene.
- Light and Shadow: Patches of light create natural frames within the image.
- Composition: Framing varies as I experiment between single and multiple subjects.
“I just have it snap-focused to infinity, pointing and shooting, highlighting weight metering with the Ricoh GR IIIx.”
With this setup, it’s easy to capture shots quickly, allowing me to focus more on the composition and timing. The highlight-weighted metering on the Ricoh GR IIIx helps me make the most out of the available light, especially around noon, when the light hits this part of the mall perfectly.
Reviewing and Adjusting On the Spot
Another key benefit of shooting digital is the ability to review photos instantly. This on-the-go feedback allows me to re-evaluate the composition and make adjustments as needed.
“Just use your LCD screen to review your photos so you can see what you’re doing and maybe re-evaluate the composition.”
Key Takeaways
- Experiment with Angles: Trying new perspectives can breathe fresh life into familiar spaces.
- Observe Light Patterns: Patches of light create opportunities for striking abstract compositions.
- Instant Feedback: Shooting digital means you can adjust and learn in real-time.
Final Thoughts
Today’s session was a quick one, maybe only five minutes of shooting in this spot, but it brought fresh ideas to mind. A reminder to myself: next time, come here around noon to catch that perfect light again. Sometimes, all it takes is a slight change in perspective to see something entirely new in a space you thought you knew.
Stay curious, and keep experimenting.