Expressive Photography: Solitude
By: Author: J Bakken

Every picture tells a story. Photographs reveal a great deal to the viewer and they can be interpreted differently by individuals. When photographs feature people they often display a variety of emotions ranging from happiness to loneliness and every possible feeling in between. Capturing 'solitude' in a photograph takes the right photographer, the right subject (human or animal), and the right setting.
When I think of my photography where I have captured solitude, I think of my ten year old niece when I photographed her last fall on the banks of the Macleod River as dusk was soon approaching. We were the only ones out by the river that autumn day and we felt like we were miles away from anyone. I managed to capture some great photographs of her as she gazed out across the river, alone in her thoughts and alone in nature.
She looked as though she could be featured on a billboard selling everything from the clothes and accessories she was wearing, to the river and outdoors behind her, to the concept of 'solitude' itself. She is a natural in front of the camera and felt comfortable standing, sitting, lying down, or walking away while I was snapping away. I managed to capture a handful of extraordinary shots where she looks deep in thought enjoying the seclusion of these unfrequented river banks.
That same afternoon I took more casual photos of her alone in her treehouse and as she laid on the grass reading her novel. These phtographs could have been on the cover of greeting cards or featured in teen magazines. The shadows and light were perfect for these pictures.
Solitude is the state of being alone,and to capture that on film is gratifying and even if you only get one great shot out of 36, you know you've got 'the one'and that's all that matters.

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