Curious? Read below to find out.
Image © Dana Attebery
Have you ever wondered what the story is behind a song, a painting, or a photograph? When it comes to photography, an image always tells a story. Some of those stories are deeper than others, but all images have a story to tell.
The image above is of my mother whom I recently photographed in the Arizona desert near where she lives. The photo is based on the song that Sting wrote and performed with his band, The Police, called, “Tea in the Sahara.” The song is about three sisters who wait for a prince to join them for tea in the Sahara desert. However ... the prince never arrives.
This song has resonated with me as I have observed my mother since the passing of her husband over 25 years ago. I’ve been wanting to do this image for many years to reflect my mother’s continuing desire to be reunited with her ‘prince’ (hence, the empty chair).
After sharing my idea with her about 10 years ago, she promptly said ‘NO.’ Just recently, though, I asked again and was pleasantly surprised when she said, “Yes, and what do you want me to wear?”
Sometimes the stories we see in images are not always cheerful and uplifting. Some tell a story of loss and hope. But they all tell a story of some kind or another.
There will be times when a simple headshot or portrait is what you want. But when you want to tell a deeper story ... before you ever pick up your camera ... it will serve you well to patiently observe, listen and get to know more about the person you want to photograph. Photography is, after all, more than just pressing a button.
Would you like a portrait that tells your story … or is there someone whose story you’d like to capture? I’m available to photograph or teach YOU how to photograph. Email or call me today for a portrait session or a specialized teaching session.
Dana Attebery Photography - serving you through portraits, 1-on-1 lessons, headshots, product photography, commercial and editorial photography, 360-virtual tours, and fine art images.
info@danaphotography.com 626-374-3638 www.danaphotography.com