Donald G. Jean from Italy shoots this perfect mood in street photography which definitely feels like a thriller movie. Seems to be a big fan of shadows, and accepts that he has no interest in technically perfect photographs. In his own words, he likes to shoot dramatic light, plenty of shadow, and solitary, silhouetted figures. Adding to that Don also likes to shoot imposing architecture, negative space, and rain. What I like about his photographs.
- The signature style in all these photographs are very intriguing and definitely makes me feel something
- The compositions are stellar and makes me go in awe at every single photograph here
- Low light photography is no easy game and Donald G.Jean proves that he is one of the finest contemporary artists here.
Could you introduce yourself?
My name is Don, I’m a retiree, and I live in northeastern Italy (about 30 miles west of Venice)
What do you think is the reason you shoot such splendid silhouettes?
I think many of my silhouette shots turn out well because I try to keep them simple and uncluttered. I like clear and distinct shapes so I avoid shooting scenes with people close together. Also, when I shoot people passing through a scene I tend to be aware of where the contrasting light is and I try to time my release to get the sharpest silhouette.
Man with the hat. How did you get this signature series?
I never intended to start a series of shots with myself as the protagonist. However, as someone who has spent a lot of time waiting for an “interesting person” to walk into a scene, I decided to take matters into my own hands. I bought a couple of PocketWizard radio transmitters/receivers–and a hat–and got into the business. While I enjoy making these shots, I’d still rather take pictures of strangers. BTW, I’ve never given this series of shots a name, but I guess Man In The Hat is as good as any.
Your gear?
I’ve been using Nikon cameras and lenses for more than forty years, but–for the most part–I don’t think it matters what gear or brand name you use. What’s important is that you know your gear well enough that you can use it comfortably without having to think much about it. I also shoot film (both small and medium format) and like the superb Zeiss ZF.2 series of manual focus lenses too.
Most of your photographs seem to be shot late. Any specific reason?
I’m primarily a night shooter, so usually don’t even go out until well after dark.
Your inspiration?
I find inspiration in places like Flickr and Tumblr and I also enjoy thumbing through photography and art books.
Some of my favorite photographers are:
Painters include:
According to Don, what makes a good picture?
As I alluded to above, simplicity (of light) and an interesting background are keys to a good image. Whenever I scout a potential scene for a shoot these are the two things I’m looking for.
Final thoughts?
Learn how to “work a scene.” By this I mean when you find a good scene shoot it from different angles and perspectives and also revisit it to take advantage different light and weather conditions.
#1
#2
#3
#4
#5
#6
#7
#8
#9
#10
#11
#12
#13
#14
#15
#16
#17
#18
#19
#20
#21
#22
#23
#24
You can find Donald G. Jean on the Web:
Copyrights:
All the pictures in this post are copyrighted to Donald G. Jean. Their reproduction, even in part, is forbidden without the explicit approval of the rightful owners.
