Reflection on Dave Hill Photograph

(Ms. Macwright--I don't know how to isolate the photograph! It's on Page 2 of his Advertisements, and it's entitled "Shannyn Sossamon.")

Dave Hill’s photography is ideal for advertising for several reasons. I do not know what this photograph is advertising, but regardless, the style of the photograph is effective for any kind of advertisement. Hill’s lighting (which, to me, seems almost Gregory Crewdson-esque in its surreal treatment) illuminates everything in the frame while providing the most contrast between light and dark on Shannyn Sossamon, the subject. This unique lighting is not something that we are likely to witness in everyday life, and is thus very cool and, by extension, memorable. It transforms a rather dilapidated stoop into an exciting visual treat for the viewer. Rather than viewing the photograph as a picture of a pretty girl on a dirty urban stoop, the light and editing make it into a surreal and interesting place that seems like fun to explore. We wish we could join Sossamon in her world that is decidedly different from ours.