Process 094 ☼ Double Exposure Experiments
GIVEAWAY: Collaborate w/ Wesley On A Roll
Dear friends,
In this week’s letter I document the fun that is a film roll exchange and the resulting double exposure images, and the lessons learned.
This week’s PROCESS GIVEAWAY is quite different from all the previous ones and surely more creative. It involves co-creating some work with me.
Double Exposure Fun Times
Ah, the magic of double exposures! In the world of analog photography, this technique is a true experimental gem. It's an exciting way to create unique and surreal images that capture the imagination and spark creativity. So, let's dive in and explore the ins and outs of double exposures.
First off, what exactly is a double exposure? Simply put, it's when two images are superimposed onto each other in a single photograph. This is achieved by taking two shots on the same frame of film, essentially layering one image on top of the other.
Now, how does one go about creating a double exposure? Well, there are a few ways to do it, but the most common method is to shoot an entire roll of film and then rewind it back into the canister. Then, without advancing the film, the photographer can hand the camera off to someone else to shoot over the first set of images.
My friend Vince and I recently did exactly this. I shot an entire roll of expired Agfa Color 200 in my Pentax LX with a 50mm 1.2 lens. Then I rewound and brought it to Vince, who loaded it into his Nikon FM2 with a Nikkor Ai-S 105mm f2.5 lens and shot the entire roll again.
This method allows for some element of surprise, as Vince shooting the second layer didn't know exactly what he was superimposing onto. It's a bit like a game of chance, and that's what makes it so exciting! You could end up with a perfect combination of two images that complement each other in unexpected ways, or you could end up with a chaotic mess of jumbled visuals.
Some of our results were exactly what I had hoped and aimed for, like this image of an older gentleman on top of an image of a hand-painted restaurant menu downtown.
Aside from just experimenting and having fun, why bother with double exposures at all? Well, for one, it's a great way to add depth and texture to your photos. By layering different images together, you can create a sense of depth that wouldn't be possible with a single shot. Plus, the unexpected nature of the process can lead to some truly unique and memorable images. Check out these Goat-Flowers!
Another benefit of double exposures is that they force you to relinquish some control over the final image. As photographers, we often strive for perfection and control every aspect of our photos, but with double exposures, there's an element of surrender that can be liberating. By letting go of the need for perfection, you open yourself up to new possibilities and unexpected outcomes.
Of course, double exposures do require a bit of skill and know-how. You'll need to be comfortable with your camera's manual settings and have a good understanding of exposure and composition. But don't let that intimidate you! Experimentation and trial and error are all part of the learning process.
So, if you're feeling adventurous and want to try your hand at double exposures, here are a few tips to get you started:
Choose your subjects carefully: Since you'll be layering images on top of each other, it's important to choose subjects that will complement each other. Think about color, shape, and texture when selecting your subjects.
Pay attention to exposure: Since you'll be layering two shots on the same frame, it's important to be mindful of exposure. Overexposing or underexposing either shot can result in a muddy or washed-out final image.
Be patient: Double exposures can take some time to master, so don't get discouraged if your first attempts don't turn out as expected. Keep experimenting and trying new things!
Takeaways
Double exposures are a fun and creative way to add depth and texture to your photos. It’s also a great way to collaborate with a friend and share the anticipatory joy waiting to see what the results are. Vince and I did some virtual high fives when the results were in and had a great time going back and forth about our favorites.
While they may require a bit of skill and know-how, the element of surprise and surrender can be liberating for photographers who are used to having complete control over their images. So, grab your camera and start experimenting! Who knows what kind of magical and unexpected images you'll create.
Now scroll down for the chance to shoot a roll of double exposures with me!
That’s it for this week! Shout out to Vince for the fun collaboration!
Next week: My approach to shooting professional portraits for entrepreneurs and artists. Also, an update on the upcoming NOTICE Journal!
Keep shooting and take good care of yourselves and others.
Wesley
Find me on Glass / LinkedIn / Instagram
A big thank you to my friends over at MBP.com for making this issue possible. MPB is the largest global platform to buy, sell, and trade used photo and video gear. They serve over 625,000 visual storytellers and all gear comes with a six-month warranty.
I’m currently testing the Canon R5 and it’s my favorite so far. Images next week.
Process Giveaway!
This week’s giveaway is a roll of film I pre-shot in Amsterdam with the intention of giving it away to a Process reader to replicate this double-exposure experiment!
Who’s up for the challenge? The winner will receive instructions on how to add their own second set of images on top. This way we will co-create 36 new double-exposure images which I will then share with the Process community later on.
To enter this week’s Process Giveaway answer the question below in the comment section for this issue:
QUESTION: If you could pick two of your favorite photographers to work together on a roll of double exposures, who would you pick? (They can be from the past too!)
My answer: Richard Avedon + Mary Ellen Mark. Imagine the stunning black and white portraits and photo journalism images mixed together!
I’m excited to read everyone’s answers!
ENTER THIS WEEK’S GIVEAWAY before 11 am EST on April 29th.
The winner will be randomly drawn. This giveaway is for Process subscribers only.
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Those look great! Why not setup an exchange program for multiple Process readers to give it a try?
My two picks from the past:
- Robert Capa, to add some structure or patterns to his war/docu shots;
- Neil Armstrong, this is a bit of cheat, anything to make some double exposed shots with a roll of -film that was on the moon ;-)
Very cool results. I love the airplane. I would go with Andoni Beristan and Mous Lamrabat. I think the results would be really interesting.