Hydrangeas and Lemons | a Still Life Photograph

Hydrangeas and Lemons is my most recent still life photographic compositions. While much effort goes into selecting and arranging the props that make up the composition my studio, a portion of my garage, is quite simple. A single LED light and possibly some white reflective cards illuminate the setting. Once all is arranged, I take several shots at different exposures which will be processed and blended in Lightroom and Photoshop.

Hydrangeas and Lemons

A vase of Hydrangea blooms sits on a rough-hewn board along with a metal bowl of lemons. A blue ceramic vase with a wooden spoon is placed to the right with a partially peeled lemon to the left.

A simple and straightforward composition whose strength lies with a few pure colors. The blue of the Hydrangea and pitcher, and the yellow of the lemons are, of course, primary colors. The green of the leaves is a secondary color arrived at by mixing the blue and yellow. The simple color palette keeps the eye engaged.

Most still life images are fraught with symbolism. Hydrangeas and Lemons has a few symbolic elements too. The peeled lemon, beetle, and the fallen blooms and leaves can be seen as time passing. The butterfly is a symbol of hope and a reminder of the fragility of life. The Hydrangea speaks to the brief nature of life and it’s luxuries.

More of my Still Life Photographs can be seen here and here. Thanks for looking.