My aim was to develop some macro photography skills while attempting to insert some more abstract element into the final project in keeping with the concept of dreams and reality. A macro photography workshop with London Photographic meet-up group was a literal eye-opener and made me aware of this area of photography as one requiring a huge new set of skills, but also with tremendously exciting (and expensive equipment-wise) potential.

The miniature photographic ‘sets’ created by the organisers allowed exploration of abstract and macro concepts and technical skills. Bruce Nauman’s work here was an influence, though in the end more his work with neon than his holograms series, in terms of image and construction. Also it offered a small opportunity to work while thinking in the context of Lorenzo Vitturi’s still lifes.

One notable aspect of this was in technical challenges of focus, especially when taking the toy duck reflected in the droplet of water. It took a long, long time to get a usable photograph, without camera shake, and illustrated a long-term need to invest in the frame equipment.