{"id":64583,"date":"2022-03-01T10:57:52","date_gmt":"2022-03-01T01:57:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/fujifilmnxtc.wpenginepowered.com\/?post_type=xstories&p=4199540"},"modified":"2024-05-02T00:40:11","modified_gmt":"2024-05-01T15:40:11","slug":"taming-the-elements","status":"publish","type":"story","link":"https:\/\/www.fujifilm-x.com\/cs-cz\/stories\/taming-the-elements\/","title":{"rendered":"Taming the Elements"},"content":{"rendered":"

Replacing the oppressive with opportunity, Polly Rusyn explains how you can reframe your street photography approach when faced with inclement weather<\/h5>\n

As sure as dawn follows night, grey skies are bound to come. When dark clouds roll over, they bring with them a frenetic energy. Pretences are dropped as sodden souls dash for cover amidst a cascade of great, fat raindrops. Opportunities to document a human element within street photography become scarce, though rewarding. And, before the heavens open, the world is plunged into a semi-darkness.<\/p>\n

But in the midst of the drama, a more daring breed of street photographer awaits \u2013 open to the rich potential and artistic challenges before them. One such creative is X-Photographer Polly Rusyn.<\/p>\n

While generally positive in outlook, this was no easy skill for Polly develop. \u201cOn overcast days, my will to photograph used to fade to a shade that matched the sky,\u201d she muses. \u201cLiving in London, I\u2019ve had more than my fair share. When it\u2019s warm and bright, there\u2019s more activity outdoors, people are always beaming and colours are brighter. Plus, you have shadows, silhouettes and pockets of light to play with and your own mood is elevated, too.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe easiest method of getting better results on a dull day is to revert to monochrome. It\u2019s a different way of seeing \u2013 and you have to be mindful of contrast, to ensure subjects stand out. But, I myself am married to colour!\u201d<\/p>\n<\/p>\n

\"Woman<\/a><\/p>\n

Photo 2022 \u00a9 Polly Rusyn | FUJIFILM X100V, 1\/500 sec at F7.1, ISO 1600 <\/p>\n<\/div>\n

Polly\u2019s distinctive brand of street photography is an enchanting mix of the tangible and unreal. She opens a doorway into a world of serendipity, with often surreal subjects displayed against a backdrop that we all recognise as the everyday. Her photography entices her audience to look twice, to question what they have seen. In order to achieve this, Polly relies heavily on hearty splashes of vibrant hues.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happens when you take away all of that sunny goodness?\u201d she questions. \u201cYou have to work harder. The established aesthetic isn\u2019t there to fall back on, so your observation needs to be directed towards story and content. I overcame my own aversion by setting mini projects dependent on poor weather. Now, I\u2019ve settled on a handful of techniques to help me make better colour photographs when conditions aren\u2019t ideal.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/p>\n

\"Close-up<\/a><\/p>\n

Photo 2022 \u00a9 Polly Rusyn | FUJIFILM X-T2 and XF23mmF2 R WR, 1\/500 sec at F8, ISO 1250<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

First, there\u2019s the matter of making sure your carry is equipped to handle the elements \u2013 and deliver the electric results you crave. With a desire to remain discreet, Polly typically opts for the FUJIFILM X100V<\/a>, complete with Weather Resistance Kit. When requirements are more demanding, she reaches for the FUJIFILM X-T3<\/a>. There\u2019s a trio of XF Lenses ideally suited to these conditions, too. The XF16mmF1.4 R WR<\/a> offers an expansive view and fast maximum aperture, while the XF23mmF2 R WR<\/a> is incredibly sharp and remains lightweight. The XF27mmF2.8 R WR<\/a> is the most compact of all, unlikely to draw any attention, even at the heart of the action.<\/p>\n

Opening with practical advice, Polly shares a glimpse into her preferred settings. \u201cWith less light, you need to slow down to retain a deep depth-of-field without blurred movement \u2013 unless that\u2019s a creative choice,\u201d she adds. \u201cI usually stop down anywhere between F5.6 and F8. I set a shutter speed from 1\/250 sec to 1\/500 sec, then bump up the ISO. That\u2019s the setting I\u2019m most willing to compromise on \u2013 and Fujifilm cameras handle high ISOs very well!\u201d<\/p>\n

To some, the colour in her photos seems to exude from Polly herself \u2013 each frame imbued with exuberant charm. In her eyes, it comes down to something decidedly more concrete. Attention.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n

\"Two<\/a><\/p>\n

Photo 2022 \u00a9 Polly Rusyn | FUJIFILM X100V, 1\/500 sec at F8, ISO 400<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\u201cInspired by documentary photographer Raymond Depardon\u2019s Glasgow series, I seek out people wearing bright colours against a relatively monochrome backdrop on dreary days,\u201d Polly explains. But, as humans, we tend to be a reactive bunch. Bleak weather is reflected by muted attire. If you\u2019re lucky, you\u2019ll find a relentless optimist or, as Polly does, you can rely on children. \u201cKids will wear lovely, vibrant clothing all year round. Plus, they\u2019re always running and playing, bringing a lively sense of movement to street photography.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnother technique is finding the most colourful backdrop you can,\u201d Polly effuses. \u201cA poster, a graffiti-covered wall, a row of painted houses, or a shop window display are perfect. Set up your frame, then wait for someone to come along and add life to the scene.\u201d<\/p>\n

In the absence of an appropriate background, Polly suggests a closer look at your subjects. \u201cYou can distract from the dull day entirely by focusing on an interesting detail, such as a piece of clothing or how they\u2019re holding their hands. Get as close as you can, and remember, you can crop more later. Colourful details, especially, look fantastic as a set.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/p>\n