Peer Review: Merel Dupont

Merel Dupont Vis Lit Portrait Series Review

Merel’s creativity in this portrait series provides another level of analyzation. In other words, instead of a one dimensional photograph, there is a lot more depth to be discovered. For example, in the first photo, her friend can be seen sitting on the floor looking worried into the camera. Instead of this simply practicing a high-angle, Merel uses the angle to mean something in addition to her friend’s expression - it’s symbolic.

She uses this technique repeatedly throughout the series. My personal favorite photograph Merel took was the image of her friend sitting in darkness with light on her face coming from a window. This not only has great symbolism, but technically speaking, it’s a stellar photo. The light provides a natural contrast which is intriguing to the viewer. The image is relatable on a level closely connected with COVID-19. Possibly the most important aspect of this photo is the composition. Many times composition is thought of solely as placement within the frame, but that’s not quite correct. Placement is only one small part of a composition. In this image, the location of her friend’s head, the proximity to the camera, the creative lighting, and the direction of the lighting all draw the viewer’s focus to her friend’s face. There is no room to wander.

The last image I would like to discuss is the final one - her friend on the field. For the first time in the series, this is a low angle looking up at her friend. This is a perfect ending to the series. Her friend is no longer seemingly submissive and fearful, but rather happy and strong. The other aspect of this image that brings it to another level is the placement of her stick. This leading line brings the viewer’s attention straight to her friend's huge smile.

Overall, Merel’s images are ones which are relatable and creative. She uses her creative sense to deepen the meaning of the images while still maintaining courtesy of what makes a good technical photograph.