Photo
+ Magazine article and interview with Julia Kim (Korea) p.22 -p.27
Q]
What’s the meaning of your subject matter “Ethereal Luminescence”?
A]
In the English language, “ethereal” means light, delicate,
airy, heavenly, celestial, or not of this world. “Luminescence”
refers to the light not created by heat. Since my favorite light sources
are LEDs, I felt that “luminescence” applied to my work.
My most delicate and out of this world (ethereal) photos are those
made using LED light sources which create luminescence.
Q] Can you tell me why did you start shooting abstract photographs
like <Ethereal Luminescence>? Where did you get inspiration
to do this work?
A]
I was looking for a way to illustrate both the dynamic lighting effects
of a light show in a forest and the joy and exhilaration of the people
viewing the show. I was not intending for the photos to be abstract,
but the experimentation with my camera showed wonderful images that
were abstract by chance. I was not happy with traditional photos at
night using a tripod. My wife and I were so pleased with the my experimental
results that I decided to use my technique at other light shows, amusement
parks and even fireworks shows.
Q] Your images are full of excitement and joy, it looks fantastic
and dynamic. Can you explain about this work process such as planning
images, searching locations, capturing lights?
A]
Basically, all I need is light sources at night. If the lights are
moving, that is better. If the light is from LEDs, that is better
also. People use lights to attract other people to their events, such
as, amusement parks, shopping centers, city amusements and to light
show performances and fireworks. With the dark or black background,
I am able to build up my images during long or multiple exposures.
To date, however, I am not using more than a single exposure.
Q] What is your message that express through your work?
A]
I am trying to show excitement and joy, as well as, to make images
that are beautiful, magical, intriguing, and to make people feel good.
Q] Are there any difficulties with taking photos or any other things?
A]
I have had no special difficulties, but I make very many exposures
and constantly make small changes in my composition, movement and
exposure. Making my images with a digital camera facilitates checking
my work as I shoot. My only regret is that camera engineers have decided
to turn off the live view once the shutter is triggered. This makes
it difficult to follow movement precisely during long exposures.
Q] What’s your interest you have recently and could you tell
us a hint about next project?
A]
I still have more ideas to pursue with “Ethereal Luminescence”
such as changing the background to a very light color.
