Chiaroscuro

 2012 Venice  3 Responses »
Nov 172012
 

Apparently, Caravaggio spent some of his early times as a painter in Venice.  It was perhaps also here that he first experimented with Chiaroscuro, a technique where a strong light source is used to create an extreme contrast between the subject and his environment. When I spotted this scene, I immediately thought about it. I am pretty sure that Caravaggio never would have thought that centuries later, his paintings would inspire a photograph. Actually, I guess that the concept of a photograph never even crossed his mind. It could only be the work of a Devil. (click on picture for high res)

Leica M9 with 60mm Hexanon at F1.2, 1/90, ISO640

The lovers of Ponte dell Accademia

 2012 Venice  1 Response »
Nov 162012
 

Not as concurred as the Rialto bridge, the Ponte dell Accademia is a perfect spot for lovers in search of a romantic spot at sunset. (click on picture for high res)

PS: We have returned from our five days stay in Venice. Absolutely wonderful since we could witness the Acqua Alta (high waters) as well as sunny days.

Leica M9 with 60mm Hexanon at F1.2, 1/60, ISO640

Wet, but with style

 2012 Venice  No Responses »
Nov 152012
 

It is not because Venice is flooded that one should not go out with style. (click on picture for high res)

Leica M9 with 35mm Lux Asph at F1.4, 1/1000, ISO160

Canal Grande

 2012 Venice  3 Responses »
Nov 142012
 

A view over the Canal Grande filled with gondolas at sunset. I guess this is the ultimate experience in Venice. (click on picture for high res)

Leica M9 with 60mm Hexanon at F1.4, 1/250, ISO640

The ghosts of San Marco

 2012 Venice  No Responses »
Nov 132012
 

Two shadows emerge out of the darkness on Plaza San Marco. For a while, it seems that Lucifer has unleashed his army of ghosts on sleepy Venice. Yet, there is no Hell but still, nuns go to church in promise of Paradise.  (click on picture for high res)

Leica M9 with 35mm Lux Asph at F1.4, 1/60, ISO640

Acqua alta

 2012 Venice  1 Response »
Nov 122012
 

Acqua alta (high waters) is a natural phenomena that hits Venice several times a year. A conjunction of high tide and strong winds push water into the Laguna that surrounds the city. Ultimately it floods the streets of Venice for a few hours. Though Acqua alta always existed, it has been magnified over the last century by human intervention (lack of drainage, too many motor boats, …) and Venice is slowly drowning. Well, not for long, since major works are in progress to stop the process. So if you'd like to discover the magic of Plaza San Marco being flooded, head to Venice soon. You'll just have to get lucky with weather conditions.

As for the picture, taken in Plaza San Marco, it shows how Venetian deal with the problem. That is by elevating temporary walkways over ground level. (click on picture for high res)

Leica M9 with 35mm Lux Asph at F1.4, 1/1000, ISO160

In Venice

 Uncategorized  2 Responses »
Nov 112012
 

Just landed in Venice tonight. And of course, exceptional weather conditions means that water has invaded the city. I plan to get up at 6am tomorrow to witness what should be a very high tide that will cover 50% of the city with water.  Just bought some huge plastic boots …

(click on picture for high res)

Leica M9 with 35mm Lux Asph at 1.4, 1/30th, ISO1250

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