April 14, 2016, Downtown Asheville, North Carolina.
Model: Camille Reid
Always looking for ways to stretch out and utilize the techniques I have developed as a street photographer, I participated in the latest organized fashion gathering (or FASHMOB) at Roger McGuire Green located in Asheville’s Pack Square Park. As there were several such events that proceeded this, the gathering was appropriately named FASHMOB VII: Media Magnet. This event is for photographers, videographers, models, makekup artists, hair stylists, and designers of all experience levels. The purpose is for people to connect, have fun, and create images to share with one another.
Left: Alisha Moon
Left: Alisha Moon
I generally rely on wide lenses such as 24mm and 28mm for street photography. For these photos, I decided to employ the 24mm. Needless to say, it presented some challenges. Getting close was one of them. One modle at my request climbed up a wall for a few shots. Finding the lens to short to get any reasonable closeups, with a giant flash mounted on the camera in one hand, I scaled the wall to grab some more intimate portraits.
Model: Bethany Sykes
Model: Bethany Sykes
The complex distortion of the 24mm lens was another factor to contend with. Distorted features created by a wide angle lens are less than flattering should you get to close. Carefully working the lens from just the right vantage point, the lens distortion can be advantageous, offering a wonderfully edgy, yet flattering image.
Model: Camille Reid
Model: Camille Reid
In short, it was a fun and worthwhile experience. And for a photographer who is more accustomed to capturing fleeting moments on the bustling city streets, having people willing to take the time to allow for several photos was more than a welcome change of pace.
Model: Camille Reid
Models: Jonathon Santos and Credella Credle
All images © Joe Longobardi. All Rights Reserved.
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