Conceptual Fine Art photography is a lengthy and time-consuming process. For me, it starts long before the click of the camera. It requires starting with a backstory, a theme, an emotion, and a storyboard. Next, I gather the props, the appropriate wardrobe, I scout the location, or create a setting and time period.

Each piece of the composition is photographed separately in order to get things right in camera. If flying books are in the piece, photos are taken of each book at a variety of angles, using the correct lighting and lighting direction, so the books and subject are lit correctly and the lighting makes sense to the viewer.

In order to bring it all together each piece of the portrait is shot using the correct point of view, camera angle, angle of light, lighting, and composition. Then the drama is addressed using color, texture, movement...and even smoke bombs.

Conceptual Art inspires you to think about the visual storytelling as if it were a painting. It requires much more than a passing glance to appreciate the nuances. Is the piece whimsical? Is it based on symbolism? What is the character's story, or mindset? What time period is reflected, or is the time period unknown? Is there conflict? Is there joy? Is there mystery?

Behind The Scenes: What does it take to create a magical image like the one above this video?

Watch this 1 minute video to find out. (This is not the finished image)