Being a photographer in the 21st century is truly incredible. After all, they have a host of camera equipment available to them that are equipped with high quality optics, dependable metering system, effective autofocus and multiple shooting moods. Modern day camera technologies have certainly made it easier for photographers to get well exposed and sharp images. However, similar to how certain retro looks have managed to gain popularity again in the fashion industry; there are still many who love the charm of ‘vintage’ camera photography. Bruce Weber, for instance, was popular for bringing a loose, lo-fi documentary approach to fashion shoots.
Bruce Weber talks about varying factors due to which people like lo-fi photography
Lo-fi photography is a photography style in which toy cameras, pinhole cameras and similar traditional equipment are used for stylistic effects. Many people consider this style to be a reaction to the perceived ease of creating technically perfect images in the model-digital age. Hence, this photography style puts emphasis on using film instead of digital technology. As the equipment needed for lo-fi photography is usually cost-effective, experimenting with it does not prove to be too costly for the photographers. Moreover, this style can also be a welcome change from what a few photographers consider to be clean, sterile and predictable images produced by digital cameras. There are popular toy cameras that are used by fine-art photographers of today due to the dreamlike, soft images they can produce. Light leaks, blurred images and vignetting are all part of the appeal of this photography style.
One of the biggest benefits of lo-fi photography is that its relatively inexpensive camera equipment can be used in conditions in which photographers would be apprehensive of using their expensive and sophisticated camera gear. There are instances of photographers using pinhole cameras in the pouring rain and harsh winds to click truly enchanting images. The lo-fi photography style is not overly concerned with the technical perfection of images. It can involve inaccurate exposure, soft edges to images, flares and guesswork focusing. However, these factors can actually stimulate the creative juices of the photographer. While engaging with this style, many photographers slowly learn to accept the lack of control, relax and go with the flow. Recognizing the unexpected is all part of the fun, and can be truly liberating. In many ways, the simplicity of lo-fi photography equipment also encourages the photographers to pay more attention to the image and its inherent qualities, instead of getting distracted by the device used to capture it.
There are no such set rules on what exactly should be captured through lo-fi photography. This style is known for its impulsive quality and flexibility. One can even take photographs for fashion shoots with this style, if they manage to match the perfect subject and technique. For instance, simple, minimalist images work best when it comes to black and white pinhole photography. Due to the distinctive charm and features of lo-fi photography, many modern photographers are inspired by the style, including Bruce Weber. Many of his fashion shoots have a nostalgic and personal aura.
