FOCAL LENGTH: 45MM (XCD 3,5/45) SHUTTER SPEED: 1/1500 SEC APERTURE: F/8 ISO: 200
CAPTURING THE SHADES OF THE BIG APPLE
Fine art photographer and Hasselblad Master Ali Rajabi sees the streets as an open world studio, filled with infinite photographic opportunities. Based in New York, Ali used the Hasselblad X1D-50C with the XCD 3,5/45 lens to capture the light and dark shades of his urban playground.
Preferring a fixed focal length, Ali used the XCD 45mm to capture sharp, high quality images. Light plays an important role in Ali’s photographs, with each frame depicting a distinct tension between shadows and highlights. But capturing good quality high-resolution files is another reason why he chooses to shoot with medium format:
“
Size is important to me.
I don’t want to create small photographs;
they should always be able to maintain their integrity as large pieces.
FOCAL LENGTH: 45MM (XCD 3,5/45) SHUTTER SPEED: 1/750 SEC APERTURE: F/8 ISO: 200
FOCAL LENGTH: 45MM (XCD 3,5/45) SHUTTER SPEED: 1/90 SEC APERTURE: F/3.5 ISO: 3200
You choose this type of camera because you have plans; you know what you want and the most important part for me is that it’s a serious investment in my art career. Of course there are other cameras that are good enough to cover many types of photography, but a Hasselblad puts me in a situation that makes each frame more considered. Shooting with a Hasselblad makes me more patient and encourages me to think more deeply, giving me greater control over every detail.
Explaining his influences and motivations, Ali said, “Photography is a journey for me, but there are so many doors that I need and want to unlock. When I’m looking at photos and the projects that I’ve done so far, I believe there are still a lot of untold stories that I want to share. I want to create and unleash those pictures that are calling out from the depths of my mind.”
Ali believes that photography is a solitary action, finding inspiration in the isolation of his work. “Even when working with a team you’re relying on your own feelings, instincts, experience, and creativity. At the end of it all, it is only you who makes the decisive, final shot.”