Hipstaclass 009 – 004: Background influence and overlap
Inherent with every multiple exposure image is the phenomenon of overexposure and ghosting, which increases with every image taken. The brightness of images being combined has a huge impact on the final result.
The key to controlling this is the concept of overlap. Images overlapping lighter areas become ghostly; images overlapping dark areas are reinforced. Use of a tripod illustrates this concept. With the camera completely stationary, the image will have 100% overlap. Remove an object from the scene and that object will lose its reinforcement, appearing transparent.
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Example of Well-Executed Composition
Lucifer VI / Sugar / RedEye Gel
Photo By Hank Bauer
Ghosting against a light background can be so severe the subject can, in some conditions, be made to completely disappear. In the other extreme, near black backgrounds can eliminate the effect.
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Example, Overlap
Wonder / Blanko Freedom 13 / Off
Photo by Patti Laws
Choice of background - or perhaps the judicious lack of one - can help emphasize the subject by removing competing or distracting elements. It also provides area for the duplicated subject to occupy.
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Example, Light and Dark Backgrounds
Tejas / Cano Cafenol / Jolly Rainbow 2x
Tinto 1884 / C-type Plate / Jolly Rainbow 2x
Photo by Dominique Heinke
A complex subject that fills the frame, or a subject juxtaposed over a busy patterned background, runs the risk of appearing muddled with multiple exposure. However, patterns can be used to complement the subject, or give it a textured dimension. In some cases the background pattern becomes the primary subject.
An interesting use of overlap can create a cameo effect: a subject in front of strong white background creates a cameo when merged with a darker second image.
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Example, Cameo Effect with Overlap
Melodie / Ina's 1982 / Off
Photo By Glenn Murray
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Example, Image Reinforcement Through Overlap
IncrediBooth / Haus O'Haunt / Salvador 84
Photo by Annie Helmsworth
Next chapter (tomorrow): Manipulating light levels
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