Photography research project set for gallery display

A Bournemouth University (BU) PhD research project looking at photographic imaging and techniques is to become the subject of an exhibition at a local art gallery.

The pictures, of British landscapes and landmarks such as the picturesque view of Corfe Castle in Dorset, were taken during the postgraduate project work of BU’s Rehan Zia.

The research looks at a type of photography production called high dynamic range (HDR) photography, which blends photographs to create a greater tonal depth. This is done by taking multiple photographic exposures blending them together for a finished product that has detail in both light and dark parts of the picture.

The research project focussed specifically on a series of photographs of a brick wall, taken using three different camera lenses at a number of different apertures. Different exposures of light were used to capture images of varying brightness.  The resulting photos were then blended to create high dynamic range images.

Another outcome of the project is the focus of the gallery display; the British landscape pictures that employ the same technique – with classic British countryside photos transformed by using the technique.

Speaking about the project, and the pictures, principal investigator Rehan Zia said, "These landscape images are a reflection of how I have always imagined Britain to be, based on the stores of Robin Hood and King Arthur I read as a child.”

Rehan continued, “High dynamic range photography allows me the latitude necessary to mould the scene lighting and mood to create these fantasy landscapes as I see them."

The display, called ‘The Brick Wall and Beyond’ is due to take place at the Atrium Art Gallery at Bournemouth University’s Talbot Campus between 17 January and 7 February 2015 and is free to all.