William Eggleston

William Eggleston is an American photographer from Memphis, Tennessee. His early work was inspired by Robert Frank who would analyse aspects of American life and represent them within his work. He has clearly taken this idea of analyses within the world and has propelled it through the use of colour photography that can transport the audience into different locations and times through the use of connotations. He focuses mainly on location photography which depicts a vast range of journey, however it is his use of colour which helps elevate his photography. He uses pastel colours and other out of place items in order to achieve this. The aspects in which he highlights gives the audience an insight into American culture and life. Eggleston's work is great to study for journey as his work was literally the documentation of his own journeys, highlighting places and people that he would come across along the way.

This image features a petrol station, which manages to draw connotations to a different moment in time. The bright colours of the image within the building and structures give impressions of the 1950s era. The cracked and patchy paint used imply that the building has been there for some time. This demonstrates journey as the image is different from anything that will be found today with its vintage apparel. This acts as a piece of history that can be found almost abandoned on your journey.

This image features a famous doughnut shop within America. The scale of the image will take the audience by surprise as it is such an absurd sight. The image exaggerates this strange sight through the use of contrasts. Eggleston has composed the image so that the monumental diner stands tall above low objects. The low angle in which the image is shot makes the doughnut shop appear slightly distorted too. This culminates to present a reality that is almost dreamlike and nothing like everyday life. This can create connotations to journey as this idea of new places and objects is a massive part of the journey process.

This image features a street which is being lit by only one street lamp. This image can be associated with journey as it addresses the sense of moving into the unknown. This is expressed through a number of factors. The one light creates intense shadows around the sides of the image, creating an almost vignette effect that offers connotations of mystery within all of the darkness. The streetlamp is green, lighting the building with the same colour. The colour of green offers connotations to mystery and even sic-fi which delves into the unknown. It is also not a common sight to see a green streetlight, which also makes this location even more unique.

This image features a liquor store. This image takes an ordinary setting and makes it appear otherworldly. Eggleston achieves this by using a black and white filter which causes the contrasts to be extremely highlighted as the neon signs act as almost a beacon amongst the darkness. The darkness surrounding the image causes the building to remain isolated which adds to the mystery surrounding the place.

Summary:

To summarise, William Eggleston is able to easily evoke connotations within the audience of journey. His location style of portraiture makes the audience feel as if they are being placed onto the journey themselves. He achieves connotations such as this through his bold imagery and intelligent use of colours which transport audiences to different moments in time. He uses these effects combined with interesting locations in order to highlight a reality that is completely different to our everyday lives.