Hans-Christian Schink

PHOTOSNACK #872

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.

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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.

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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