While viewing this image, visitors responded to one of the questions Catherine Opie posed about portraits.
- Which of these landscapes intrigues you and why?
- Write a story or poem inspired by one of these pictures. Or, if one of them brings a memory to mind, tell that story.
- Some of these images are made spontaneously while others are carefully staged by the artist. How does this difference in approach affect your response?
To read more about Catherine Opie's work, visit Catherine Opie: American Photographer
This photograph seems to have been taken spontaneously, which creates an intimate quality. The picture has characteristics of a well composed scene, but the fact that the figures are so unaware of another presence and the presence of a camera makes this image feel more spontaneous than staged. As a result, the photographer witnesses a private moment between father and son, or maybe 2 friends. Fleeing the oppressive heat and crowds, they enter the pool deep in conversation. The spontaneity of their actions is mirrored in the spur of the moment photo, which enhances the private nature of their conversation, creating a more intriguing and affecting image.
_____________________________________