Intimacy is key, I thought, when brainstorming ideas on how to effectively create an online presentation concerning AIDS. Getty Images had asked if I had plans to build content for World AIDS Day. They proposed a gallery focusing on photographer Brent Stirton's AIDS images.
I recalled Brent's work from my previous job at the AFP, so I was eager to produce the project. And considering the heavy topic of AIDS, I thought that hearing Brent instead of simply viewing his work would add tremendous meaning to the images.
His photos are stunning. In one moment you notice the beauty created by Brent's lighting techniques and composition, and in the next moment the reality of those living with the disease strikes you. The audio was a further jolt back to reality. In his laid back, relaxed demeanor, Brent turned stories of children suffering with AIDS into catalysts inspiring social action.
As I chatted with him, Brent's heartfelt personality and personal connection moved me, as it did the audio technician in the studio who was helping me with the recording. The combination of audio and photo put everything in perspective -- we're lucky we're living the lives we do, and fortunate to have a storyteller to reaffirm that. I'm glad the collaboration with Getty and Brent helped bring together a perfect opportunity to create this online experience. Brent's audio/visual combination provided viewers the ability to come face to face with the problem of AIDS around the world.
To fully experience the gallery, go to: Behind the Lens: Brent Stirton - AOL Pictures
- Sara
4 comments:
nice saturation on the girl on the bench...
ben michalski photographer
www.benmichalski.com
I think those pictures (AIDs Images) are absolutly wonderful. I like to see there are passionate people still here
luv ya
bill
I saw 5 or so picture and text spread of James Brown... But Not ONE of Gerald Ford 39th President of the United States.... Maybe Brown will have a national holiday in his honor...
I hope that we reawaken to the AIDS crisis around the world that Mr. Stirton has captured in his marvelous photographs.
In the USA we have seen the advancement of medicine that has nearly removed the death sentence that AIDS once was here, but in the third world - heaven help the victims for no one else can.
If anyone reads this please go to the gallery and hear and weep.
Dominick Conte
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