RubenB

Rememberance

Shoot in a bunker at the french coast, feeling the great loss and sacrifice of those who served.

Shoot in a bunker at the french coast, feeling the great loss and sacrifice of those who served.
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France

Aug, 2024

Views

772

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Awards

Featured

Peer Award

Behind The Lens

Location

This photo was taken in the north of France, inside a World War II bunker situated on the beach. The area offers a striking variety of settings, from rugged coastline to relics of history, making it a fantastic place for creating diverse and atmospheric scenes.

Time

The photo was captured on a gloomy autumn afternoon. Rain was pouring down, which led us to seek shelter inside the bunker. This unplanned detour turned into an opportunity to create something truly special. The rain added a layer of intensity to the mood, complementing the stark, historical setting.

Lighting

The environment of this photo feels inherently dark and melancholic, reflecting the history of the World War II bunker. The weather seemed to mirror this mood perfectly, with overcast skies and steady rain. I used natural light, carefully filtered to ensure the clouds were visible and not overexposed. This subtle adjustment was key to maintaining the somber and reflective atmosphere of the scene.

Equipment

Sony A7III, 16-35mm f2.8 GM

Inspiration

I’ve always wanted to create a fine art nude photograph in this location. The vision was to juxtapose the softness, elegance, and fragility of a nude figure with the cold, harsh, and functional concrete of a wartime bunker. The model’s delicate form, conveying fear and sadness, serves as a poignant contrast to the brutal history etched into the walls of the bunker. It’s a story of vulnerability against the backdrop of one of the most unforgiving periods in history.

Editing

In post-processing, I relied on Lightroom to bring out the intended mood. Using techniques like dodging and burning, I emphasized specific areas (such as the graffiti) to guide the viewer’s focus and evoke the right emotions. Gradient filters helped balance the light and shadows, ensuring the sky retained its brooding character without overpowering the scene. As always, I chose black and white for my fine art nude work, as it enhances the timeless aesthetic I aim to achieve.

In my camera bag

For shoots like this, I prefer to travel light in terms of photo gear. My kit usually consists of a Sony A7III, a 16-35mm, and a 24-70mm lens. This keeps me flexible and mobile. The rest of my backpack is reserved for the model’s comfort—towels, snacks, and hot beverages to ensure they feel warm and cared for, especially on chilly days like this one.

Feedback

If you’re inspired to try something similar, my advice is simple: just go for it. Don’t overthink it, but plan strategically to avoid interruptions. Choose a weekday in the off-season, like autumn, when most people are at work or school. Rainy weather can also work in your favor, as it keeps casual hikers away, providing you with the solitude needed to focus on creating.

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