Old, Experimental Film Photographs

For a number of years now I have been posting my abstract images to Instagram and entering them into competitions and festivals and showing them in exhibitions. If you follow me on Instagram, I am sure you are familiar with my work.

As someone who has always been one to experiment or push the limits, it won't shock you to find out that I have a history of taking experimental and abstract photos. My images usually have polar opposite reactions/criticisms, which I enjoy and expect. Before I began posting online however, my images mainly had negative reactions. I believe this was because I was existing in only a small pond and was therefore difficult to find my audience.

One of the most memorable negative criticisms was from my high school photography teacher, who said to me "you are the worst photographer I have ever seen". Very inspirational speech to give a 17 year old! Oh well, that didn't deter me and she clearly didn't understand what I was trying to do. Probably didn't help that I kept being experimental, rather than churning out the generic images she wanted.

Below are four images that show some of my experimenting when I was using film.

The top two images were taken in Wellington, New Zealand. These were made using camera filters that were designed for black and white photography only. Naturally, that meant that I just had to use them with colour film. I think the results are quite stunning.

The third image was taken in London, near the River Thames. I intentionally moved the camera as I pressed the shutter down. I like the result and I also like how the lights in the background, across the river look.

The last image was taken as part of my photography class in high school. I painted and splashed the chemicals on the paper, rather than doing it the "correct" way and I think it came out really well and looks very interesting. My teacher hated this and told me so. At least it stood out and got a reaction!

I am sure I won't stop experimenting and pushing the limits, but it was fun to take a look back at what I was doing when I was working with film. I might even go back to film one of these days.

Let me know what you think.