Stained Glass Windows

It is sometimes the case when photographing well trod interior locations such as famous cathedrals, that unexpected "things" can get in one's way. People, scaffolding, signs are the most common. In this instance the temporary plastic sheeting lining the spaces either side of this beautiful wall of stained glass, has been used to good effect. The reflection of the glass colours has created an unexpected shimmer against its surface. The well composed view of this has created a surprising and pleasing effect.

This is an interesting approach to photographing stained glass windows from an exterior viewpoint. "Unable to get a decent exposure for both silhouette and windows I reverted to this composite of two photos." Compositing two layers of separate exposures (one capturing shadows the other highlights) of the same scene, is very common with photography of architecture and interiors. It provides flexibility for the photographer to balance the interior lighting with the exterior daylight how they see fit. In this instance, it has been done strikingly, providing a refreshing and novel approach to illustrating stained glass windows.

Stained glass windows, as seen through the many photographs presented in this contest, are often of traditional design motifs and formally presented within vast interior spaces. This photograph, presents an alternate approach: the effects of the light having passed through the stained glass, leaving a soft, daubed imprint of vibrant cool through warm hues, sit surrealy against the stone floor.

This photograph is similar to many in this contest — a vast interior space with a spectacular stained glass feature for the eye to feast upon. This is no different, except that the space is Bangkok train station. Combined with its blurred reflection on the platform surface, the stained glass is a simple design (perhaps in need of repair), yet it nonetheless grabs our attention and commands us to look at it. The trains and figures add context and detail which further enrich this wonderful photograph.