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Phil Douglis | all galleries >> Galleries >> Gallery Eight: Light and shadow shape meaning > Shopper, Chinatown, Yangon, Myanmar, 2005
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02-FEB-2005

Shopper, Chinatown, Yangon, Myanmar, 2005

There is a very large Chinese presence in Yangon. At its heart is Chinatown, a warren of narrow streets piled high with baskets, produce, delicacies, crafts, flowers, songbirds, and crabs. I waited for this preoccupied shopper to walk out of the deep shadows and into this tiny spot of sunlight in order to make this picture. The interplay of light and shadow in this image reinforces the mood, and perhaps the frustrations of the shopper herself. It is the eve of the Chinese New Year, and her expression tells us that she is intently searching for something she needs, yet cannot quite remember what it is, or where she can find it. Maybe she is trying to sort out her options, as well. By surrounding her in darkness, I imply these unknowns – the unanswered questions of a busy shopper.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ20
1/500s f/5.6 at 18.5mm iso80 full exif

other sizes: small medium large original auto
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Phil Douglis14-Jun-2006 17:28
Once again, I seem to be making your head swim, Jack. That's all to the good -- this is a turbulent market. Although this woman seems to be shutting out all that swirls around her, you don't.
Guest 08-Jun-2006 22:26
Very nice market scene!! There is obviously a focus but my eyes seem to flit around and pick up other objects, almost creating a swirl composition.
Phil Douglis14-Oct-2005 00:03
The meaning here comes from the questions asked -- both by her and the image. As you say, I have used light to stress her questioning attitude and create the mysterious shadows that seem to hold the answers. You use few words, but you use them well.
Galina Stepanova13-Oct-2005 18:36
Oh, yes, perfect usage of light to emphasize the meaning.
Phil Douglis11-Aug-2005 17:28
Thanks, Rod. The shadows also simplify the image, and emphasize the subject by abstracting her surroundings. They remove clutter and distraction, and as you say, cause the viewer to wonder where she is going and what she may be searching for .
Guest 11-Aug-2005 15:00
I can see how the shadows play a vital role in the photo. They really give a sense of mystery, making me wonder what she's looking for.
Phil Douglis04-Mar-2005 18:01
Thanks for sensing the emotion here, Dandan. And how the interplay of light and shadow have emphasized and isolated that emotion.
Guest 04-Mar-2005 11:43
Yup, you can really feel the frustration for her… The light on her face really pulls viewer’s focus on her expression…
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