Blog Post 27 July 2020: Swan at the Industrial Estate

27 JULY 2020:

Swan at the Industrial Estate

A-088. Swan at the Industrial Estate - by Greig Clifford
Copr. Copyright © 2020 GREIG CLIFFORD.

I think most of us would usually expect to see a swan gliding gracefully along a river in a setting far more scenic than that of an industrial estate. I was surprised to see it here and I think the pigeons were too!

So, when presented with this opportunity it was natural to want to grab a shot quickly for fear of disturbing the moment, but that wouldn't necessarily have made the most aesthetically pleasing of images, or help build a deeper thought behind the image, which is what I try to do.

Whilst keeping my distance so as not to cause any distress, I calmly and quietly composed the shot looking to divide the frame in an interesting way... using the wall edge, it's baseline, and it's shadow to split the scene into three sections. I felt this gave the image a firm visual structure that went well with the stark concrete surroundngs.

Then it was just a matter of waiting for a little extra something to build that all important narrative. I'm hoping there's enough elements for you to create your own ideas around the image. For me, it felt like it could be a metaphor for homelessness, a comparison with the people I see on the streets of Brighton and London, curled up in a corner taking no part in the world as it moves on around them... and that being in this situation doesn't mean one ceases to be beautiful, just in need of help.

If this image is the first of mine you have seen, or you are generally new to my work, please know I'm always keen to make new contacts and push my photography to wider horizons. If you like what you see, say hello!

If you are able to help bring my photography to a larger audience, then lets talk! I'd be glad to hear from you!

Finally, prints of this image are available, starting at affordable prices to encourage new collectors. Signed archival quality prints are strictly limited in number. Your support is very much appreciated.

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