Kaley Spirko's profile

Ansel Adams Emulation

During my time in DDN215: Digital Photography I class at Grand Canyon University, I embarked on a journey to emulate the iconic style of master photographer Ansel Adams. Initially, I was predominately intrigued by the snowy scenery, carefully captured in black and white with a perfect use of light and shadow. As I immersed myself in the process of emulation, I gained a deeper appreciation for Adams' mastery of the craft and the technical precision required to achieve his level of excellence. While it may seem simple, there is a profound complexity in Adams' work that I endeavored to capture in my emulation project. 
My main chosen photograph from this emulation project features a small snow bank, where shadow becomes an integral element of the composition. 
Another notable photograph I took for this project, inspired by Adams' love for nature, showcases a snowy landscape with various kinds of trees. 
This was a project that I learned a great amount from. One of the most profound discoveries was the transformative power of a black and white filter. In particular, I found that the black and white filter heightened the drama and intensity of the scenes, emphasizing the interplay between light and shadow in a way that added depth and dimension to the images. Additionally, every aspect of the scenes I captured, from the placement of trees to subtle changes in lighting had to be carefully planned, much more meticulously than I thought. To emulate Adams, you cannot simply walk outside and take any picture. In presenting these photographs, I hope to convey not only the beauty of nature, but also to continue on the enduring legacy of Adams and inspire others. 
Ansel Adams Emulation
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Ansel Adams Emulation

Published: