New Project Update

Did the test printing for the floating black portfolio. Not bad. Good aspects included beautiful rich black borders on the images; however, images lacked the print quality I desire for the final portfolio (ie dark images and tonal balance inconsistancies). Saw other test prints on the Epson 2200 with arches paper and found that the color, tonal, and even a rich black on a matt-ish paper that looked great. The tests on the back to back mounting looked perfect so that looks the way to go. On a last note, I am waiting for a book to arrive on book binding that might be perfect for the final presentation of the portfolios.

Side note: Had an idea to adjust the layout for the Ma house. Essentially, switching the left side, except the sitting room, with the right side, excluding the living room. I like the direct sight line down the right engawa to the back Naka Niwa. This new layout out further privitizes the master bedroom and the office.

Abstract Diptychs

"Realistic" Diptychs

New Project

Sunday, I began a new photo series. Diptychs composed in camera. The first tests were done at the Baltimore Aquarium exploring the horizon lines created by the water line. Images seemed to split into two categories: abstract and a more "realistic." This related to the use of focus and depth of field. Quick notes:

• Focal Planes
• Split image creating in camera diptych, separating the two worlds above and below water line describing these worlds so differently while showing that they are only a thin line apart.
• Horizon created by water line changed due to the movement of the water while re-emphasizing the false horizon/frame line.
• Abstract images have split fields like the realistic ones; however, they become interesting color fields with a relationship to what contains (the water beading on the glass or shallow focus on the front if the water in the scene) the aquarium dioramas.
  

Images will be coming soon. Tomorrow, I will be test printing ten images.

間 (Ma) House Design Version 5

This house design began a few months ago. The initial layout derved its physical and conceptual basis from the Japanese word 間 (Ma). This word, roughly translated, means between. Aesthetically, it refers to a space between that further defines its surroundings (again roughly and quickly recapped). The design of the house used the kanji character for actual physical layout and to define the open spaces between the physical structure of the house. The house is designed to be an earth sheltered home with two open areas (naka niwa) within the layout. The largest is in the middle of the layout with a dining room protruding outward. This open area is enclosed by glass on all sides.