I regularly contact photographers featured on PHOTOSNACK and ask them to share their spontaneous thoughts, observations, reflections, or advice.
Today, I am sharing the message I received from Hans-Christian Schink.
Hans-Christian Schink
The Aqua Claudia Story
I spent the entire year of 2014 as a fellow of the German Academy Villa Massimo in Rome. The big question at the beginning was: what does one do as a photographer in a city where millions of photos are taken every day? My answer: immerse yourself, including in the history of this famous place.
As usual, I did my research using, among other things, the satellite mode of Google Maps. I noticed that the Aqua Claudia is the only aqueduct whose remaining fragments allow us to trace its path from the starting point of its above-ground structure all the way to the center of Rome. This represents not only a journey through the topography of this city, but also through the course of the urban development over time.
But how could I make this building and its surroundings stand out from the momentary and everyday in my photographs? I would try to avoid any sign of immediate human activity.
Over several weeks, I explored the entire area on foot or by bicycle, determining the shooting spots for my work with the large-format camera. Since I prefer the even light of an overcast sky, which Rome almost never has, there was only one solution: the brief period in the morning when twilight is over, but the sun has not yet risen above the horizon.
So every morning throughout the summer, I looked out the window of my studio at 3:30, and if it looked like the sky was going to be clear, I got in my car and drove to one of my chosen locations. These drives through nighttime Rome were certainly among the most beautiful moments of my stay.
With a bit of luck, I would find the selected spot free of parked cars or other distractions and be able to take that one perfect shot of the day.
Hans-Christian Schink was featured in PHOTOSNACK #824.
Through Sunday Editions, I occasionally connect you with photographers whose work you previously explored through PHOTOSNACK.
I want to reveal some authentic parts of the people behind the cameras. I don't ask them any specific questions. I ask them to share whatever comes to mind when they think about YOU, the newsletter readers. It makes their responses genuine and personal.
Until next time,
Tomasz
If you want to find a way to put your own spin on a topic, and find something that's uniquely yours in the midst of volumes of work that others have done, here's an example of "how to". And nice to e-meet you, Hans-Christian! Thanks as always Tomasz.
Hi I’d love to submit a photo . How do I go about it