As the golden hour casts a gentle glow over the city, I sit, enveloped in the warmth of an incredible announcement: my portrait of the extraordinarily talented Michael James Shaw has been shortlisted as a finalist in the prestigious Hasselblad Masters 2023 competition. Amidst a vast sea of 85,000 submissions, to be selected among the top 10 in the portrait category is an honor that leaves me both humbled and elated.
The Essence of Excellence
The Hasselblad Masters competition is more than just an award; it's a testament to the enduring power of visual storytelling. Being recognized at such a level is not merely a reflection of technical skill but a celebration of the unique narrative each image embodies. This year's finals hold particular significance for me, not just for the accolade but for the journey it represents in capturing the soul of an actor as compelling as Michael James Shaw.
From the Lens of Rory Lewis: A Journey to the Hasselblad Masters 2023 Finals (Michael James Shaw Portrait)
Inviting Michael to my Los Angeles Studio was a pursuit of capturing more than just a visage; it was an exploration into the depth of character and emotion that Michael so effortlessly conveys. Known for his roles in "The Walking Dead" and "Limitless," his presence in front of the camera is as commanding as it is captivating. Inspired by the chiaroscuro technique of Caravaggio, our session aimed to craft images that were not only visually arresting but resonant with the intensity and drama akin to that of the Renaissance masters.
The portrait of Michael James Shaw is part of a broader endeavor, the Selah project, which seeks to intertwine the spiritual essence of the Renaissance period with contemporary portraiture. The term 'Selah,' prevalent in the Book of Psalms, represents a moment of pause, a breath of reflection. It is this introspective quality, combined with the dramatic lighting and expressive depth inspired by the likes of Rembrandt and Ribera, that defines the project.
The Selah exhibition is not merely a showcase of portraiture but an immersive journey through light, shadow, and emotion. It is here that the essence of my work, driven by the profound narratives of counter-reformation art and the mystique of Caravaggio’s tenebrism, finds its true expression.
As we approach the voting phase of the Hasselblad Masters 2023, I extend a heartfelt invitation to you, my supporters, to join me in this exhilarating journey. Your vote is not just a nod to a single image but an affirmation of the artistic exploration and dedication that each portrait represents. Let us make history together, and with your support, bring home the honor that this recognition entails.
Winning would not only be a personal achievement but an opportunity to continue pushing the boundaries of portrait photography. With the Hasselblad 100-megapixel camera and creative fund at stake, the potential for future projects is boundless.
Together, Towards Victory
To cast your vote and for more information on the Hasselblad Masters 2023, please visit [Hasselblad's official website]. Your support means the world to me, and together, I believe we can achieve this remarkable milestone.
Thank you for being a part of this journey. Let's continue to celebrate the power of photography and the stories it can tell.