I've been getting really into music videos lately. I feel like there are so many songs I listen to on a daily basis and then I see the music video and go "Wow, so that just adds another layer to this song". Either that, or I'm like, wow, that song was better left alone XP. But seriously, there are some really awesome music videos out there. This one, How, by Regina Spektor, I thought had a really interesting composition and feel to it . . . the background, the wardrobe, the props . . . it's all very melancholy, yet quirky (what by Regina isn't?). And yes, at the time my angst was kicking in big time, but what's new? :P
So what's this got to do with photography, or more specifically, self portraits? I was thinking about music videos and how they are like one long series of self portraits. It's the artist (usually), singing their lyrics, expressing their song through a visual format. Music videos offer a way for us to see the musician, sometimes in a different light than what we might through the media or on stage. And the way the video is filmed, what people wear, how they move their body, how they interact with other people --- it's all so similar to photography, in that you want that perfect set up, that perfect angle, that perfect moment to convey whatever feeling or message you are trying to get across.
Music has been really inspiring to me in terms of self portraits. Usually, when I am feeling a certain way, a song will pop up that speaks to me. And then I listen to it like a billion times. And those songs usually spark some type of visual experience for me-- whether it's a still photo or moving experience, usually some idea of something pops into my head. I don't always act on it and I've never acted on the moving experiences. Why? Feeling like I lack the time, not having the experience, feeling like I don't have the equipment . . . Basically the usual culprit- Fear. But I'm writing this because I feel like, once I have severed some times and commitments, I need to explore. Physically and mentally. And this is something I have been curious about for awhile. So, essentially, remember.
Also, this is the latest song on my mind; I don't think it's the greatest music video, but it does have some nice shots and good humor. I just love the lyrics-- totally feeling it.
