Tableau and staged photography encompass a wide range of approaches and techniques employed by various practitioners. These approaches, although distinct, contribute to the rich and diverse field of photography.
Alastair Sinclair - Bronek Kozka
Practitioners of tableau and staged photography utilize different methods to create visually captivating and conceptually layered images. They share a common goal of constructing scenes within the frame of a photograph, manipulating elements to convey narratives, evoke emotions, and explore symbolism.
Within this broad category, there are numerous photographers who have made significant contributions to the field. Some notable practitioners include Gregory Crewdson, Cindy Sherman, and Jeff Wall. Their works demonstrate the diverse approaches and artistic visions within tableau and staged photography.
Gregory Crewdson is renowned for his elaborate and cinematic scenes that blur the boundaries between reality and fiction. Cindy Sherman explores themes of identity and gender through self-portraits in which she transforms into various characters. Jeff Wall's large-scale photographs reference historical painting and employ intricate staging to convey complex narratives.
These photographers, along with many others, have created a wide variety of tableau and staged photographs, each with their own distinctive approach and artistic vision. Their contributions showcase the immense potential of this genre to produce visually stunning and thought-provoking images.
In my approach to tableau photography, I am driven by the characters themselves. It all begins with a spark—an old family photograph, a fleeting memory, or a personal recollection. From there, I delve into the depths of these characters, exploring their complexities and bringing them to life.
As I develop these characters, the scene begins to unfold. Their stories, emotions, and relationships shape the narrative that I aim to capture. It's a deeply introspective process, allowing me to delve into the human experience and convey it through my photographs.
Contrasting my approach is the work of Jeff Wall, a renowned artist in the field of tableau photography. Wall takes an observational stance, meticulously recreating real-life scenes that he has encountered. His attention to detail and ability to mimic reality are awe-inspiring.
In his images like "A Man with a Rifle" (2000) and "Mimic" (1982), Wall captures significant moments from everyday life, meticulously reconstructing them to evoke emotions and tell stories. His work carries a cinematic quality, drawing viewers into the scene.
While Wall's approach focuses on faithfully recreating observed moments, my perspective centers on character-driven storytelling. I seek inspiration from within, drawing from personal experiences and memories to create a narrative that reflects my vision. By delving into the depths of the characters, I aim to convey their emotions, connections, and struggles.
Both approaches contribute to the rich tapestry of tableau photography, offering diverse perspectives and narratives. While Wall's work captures the essence of observed scenes, my approach emphasises the intimate exploration of characters and the stories they have to tell.
From that starting point, I begin to develop the characters who will inhabit my scenes. I delve into their backgrounds, their personalities, and their motivations. It's an exciting process of exploration and discovery as I breathe life into these fictional individuals.
Working closely with models or actors, I collaborate to bring these characters to life within the tableau. I guide their poses, expressions, and interactions to ensure that the emotions and narrative I want to convey are captured in the final image. The characters become the focal point, driving the story and creating a connection with the viewer.
In character-driven tableau photography, I have the opportunity to explore various themes and concepts related to the human experience. Whether it's delving into identity, relationships, societal issues, or psychological states, the characters serve as vessels for these explorations. They add depth, complexity, and a sense of authenticity to the visual composition.
Kew House Series: Dinner Time - Bronek Kozka
When I first started working with tableau photography, I must admit that my focus was more on the technical aspects rather than the story itself. Aesthetics often took precedence, and the narrative would sometimes be driven by the visual elements rather than the underlying idea or concept. Even when it came to casting, my choices were primarily based on looks and instinct, often working with models rather than actors.
However, as I progressed, I began to realise that the characters within the tableau needed to be more than just figures in the frame. They needed to be living, breathing, three-dimensional beings with depth and complexity. I found myself frustrated when the story wasn't clear or when the characters lacked substance. It was easy to get lost in the process without a solid foundation.
That's when I decided to develop a more rigorous approach to character development. I understood the importance of fully evolving the characters, providing them with detailed backstories and rich personalities. By investing time and effort into crafting well-rounded characters, everything became easier. I could understand their motivations, predict their actions, and effectively direct them within the tableau.
Creating characters with enough depth and detail allowed me to connect with them on a deeper level. I could empathize with their experiences, their desires, and their struggles. As a result, the narratives within my tableau became more compelling and authentic. The characters became the driving force behind the story, and every choice I made, from the composition to the lighting, served to enhance their presence and communicate their emotions.
Through this process of developing fully realized characters, tableau photography transformed for me. It became a medium through which I could explore the human condition, tell meaningful stories, and evoke genuine emotions in viewers. The tableau became a stage where these living, breathing characters could come to life and engage with the audience in a profound way.
Now, every tableau I create is driven by the characters and their stories. They guide my decisions, inspire my compositions, and ultimately shape the narrative that unfolds before the lens. They are no longer mere props or aesthetically pleasing figures but individuals with their own journeys and voices, adding depth and authenticity to the tableau.
I have always believed that having well-developed characters with intricate details is one, if not the most important supports for planning and pre-production. This belief continues to hold true, and I aim to demonstrate its significance through the approach I am about to share. By creating characters with depth and specificity, I can envision their wardrobe choices that align with their personalities, ensuring that their clothing reflects their individual style and contributes to the overall visual composition. The same goes for props and set design; I can select objects and settings that are consistent with the characters' backgrounds, interests, and lifestyles. This attention to detail enhances the cohesiveness and believability of the tableau. This is especially important when working with a team, producer, hair & make-up, stylist etc.
In essence, this approach to character-driven tableau photography is not merely a theoretical concept; it is deeply ingrained in the mechanics of my creative process. By investing time and effort into developing rich and multi-dimensional characters, I create a solid foundation for my storytelling.
What Is Character Development?
Character development in the context of tableau/stills photography involves the process of creating compelling and multi-dimensional characters with depth and clear motivations. While character development in writing or film may also encompass the changes a character undergoes throughout a story, in photography, it primarily focuses on crafting a character that resonates visually.
It's essential to avoid fixating solely on the external appearance of the character when embarking on character development. Instead, the emphasis should be placed on building the character's personality, background, and desires. By workshopping ideas and delving into the intricacies of the character's inner world, their face and physical attributes will naturally come into sharp focus.
Character development in photography is about constructing individuals who feel real and authentic within the tableau. This involves exploring their backstory, motivations, and relationships, just as one would in writing or film. By investing in this process, the resulting characters will possess a greater sense of depth and relatability, allowing viewers to engage with them on a more profound level.
Remember, character development in tableau photography is not solely about aesthetics. It is about bringing to life fully formed individuals who resonate with the viewer through their emotions, actions, and connections within the scene. By prioritizing the development of characters before focusing on their outward appearance, you can create captivating and compelling narratives that transcend the visual realm.
Developing characters for tableau photography shares many similarities with developing characters for short screenplays or films. In addition to utilizing questionnaires as a starting point, there are various aspects and questions that can greatly enhance the depth and complexity of your characters. The more comprehensive your understanding of the characters, the smoother the process of directing, styling, and collaborating with the actors portraying them. While the list of questions is extensive, here are a few essential ones to consider:
1. What are their core desires and goals? Understanding what drives your characters will shape their actions and decisions within the tableau.
2. What are their fears and insecurities? Exploring their vulnerabilities adds layers of authenticity and relatability to their persona.
3. What is their backstory and personal history? Knowing their past experiences and relationships provides insights into their behaviour and motivations.
4. What are their values and beliefs? Understanding their moral compass and worldview will inform how they interact with others and navigate the tableau's environment.
5. What are their relationships and connections? Examining their dynamics with other characters adds depth and complexity to their interactions and emotions.
These questions serve as a starting point to delve into the intricacies of your characters. However, feel free to expand beyond these five and explore additional aspects that contribute to their complexity. By immersing yourself in their world and uncovering the nuances of their personality, you can develop fully realized characters that captivate viewers and enhance the storytelling within your tableau photography.
Over the years, I have utilized various questionnaires to develop my characters, adapting existing ones found online and even creating my own from scratch. The key has always been to delve into greater detail and depth.
The Den - Bronek Kozka
Let me provide an example for a recent project:
For this particular scene, I envisioned a setting in 1980s Los Angeles, centred around two characters employed at an advertising agency. One character is a senior executive while the other is a younger individual working in the art department. The older man is married but is having a clandestine affair with the younger man. The overall feel, or sentiment of this piece is inspired by the work of Bret Easton Ellis, The Informers, American Psycho, & Less than Zero.
To bring these characters to life, I began by asking a series of questions:
1. What is your character's full name?
- Jonathan Parker
2. What is your character's age and birth date?
- Age: 54
- Birth date: June 8, 1934
3. Where was your character born and raised?
- Jonathan was born and raised in the affluent neighbourhood of Bel Air in Los Angeles, California.
4. Describe your character's physical appearance.
- Jonathan has salt-and-pepper hair, thinning at the temples, and expressive hazel eyes that hint at a lifetime of experiences. He stands at an average height with a slightly stooped posture, a result of years spent behind a desk. His slender frame reflects a life filled with leisurely pursuits rather than physical labour. He prefers tailored suits that exude sophistication, and he meticulously maintains his grooming and fashion choices.
5. What is your character's occupation or profession?
- Jonathan is a high-ranking executive at one of the most prestigious advertising agencies in Los Angeles. He specializes in strategic brand management and has a knack for crafting persuasive campaigns that captivate audiences.
6. What are your character's hobbies or interests?
- Outside of work, Jonathan is an avid art collector and frequents galleries and exhibitions, immersing himself in the vibrant art scene of 1980's Los Angeles. He also indulges in fine dining, savouring the intricate flavours and innovative dishes that the city has to offer. Jonathan has a passion for music, particularly the smooth melodies of jazz and the infectious energy of 80's pop.
7. Is your character introverted or extroverted?
- Jonathan possesses an air of refined charm, effortlessly navigating social circles and engaging in conversations with ease. He thrives in social situations and enjoys the energy of gatherings, though he does appreciate moments of solitude to reflect on his thoughts and emotions.
8. How does your character handle stress or conflict?
- Jonathan masks his stress and conflict behind a veneer of composure and professionalism. However, beneath the polished facade, he battles with internal turmoil, sometimes resorting to moments of introspection or indulgence in vices to cope with the mounting pressure.
9. What are your character's strengths and weaknesses?
- Strengths: Jonathan is highly persuasive and possesses a natural charisma that enables him to effortlessly connect with others. He has a discerning eye for aesthetics and a keen understanding of consumer behaviour.
- Weaknesses: Despite his outward confidence, Jonathan struggles with a constant sense of emptiness and restlessness. He grapples with decision-making, often torn between the desires of his heart and the expectations placed upon him.
10. Describe your character's relationship with their family.
- Jonathan hails from a prominent and influential family in Los Angeles. They are well-known in social circles and hold considerable power and wealth. However, beneath the veneer of privilege, there is a deep-seated emotional detachment. Jonathan maintains a cordial relationship with his family, but their interactions often feel superficial, characterized by unspoken expectations and a sense of distant respect.
11. What is your character's educational background?
- Jonathan attended an exclusive private school in Los Angeles during his formative years. He later pursued a Bachelor's degree in Marketing from a renowned university, solidifying his foundation in the field of advertising.
12. Does your character have any special talents or abilities?
- Jonathan possesses a remarkable ability to analyse market trends and consumer behaviour. He has an innate talent for crafting persuasive narratives and developing compelling branding strategies that captivate audiences.
13. What is your character's favourite book or movie?
- Jonathan's favourite book is "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald, a tale that resonates with his fascination for the extravagant lifestyles of the elite. As for movies, he holds a particular fondness for "Breakfast at Tiffany's," drawn to its portrayal of a world where secrets and longing lie beneath the glamorous surface.
14. Does your character have any pets?
- No, Jonathan does not have any pets. His demanding career and transient lifestyle make it difficult for him to provide the necessary attention and care.
15. What is your character's favourite food or cuisine?
- Jonathan's refined palate appreciates the intricacies of modern Californian cuisine, with its focus on fresh, local ingredients and innovative flavour combinations. He revels in the delicate artistry of culinary creations that showcase the vibrant culinary scene of 1980's Los Angeles.
16. What are your character's political or social beliefs?
- Jonathan, being part of the privileged class, tends to be politically indifferent, focusing more on personal gratification and maintaining appearances. Socially, he occupies a world where materialism and shallow connections are prevalent, but he occasionally contemplates the emptiness beneath the surface and yearns for more meaningful connections.
17. Does your character have any phobias or fears?
- Jonathan has a deep-seated fear of abandonment, stemming from his childhood and the emotionally distant dynamics within his family. He also harbors a fear of losing control over his desires and being consumed by his own impulses.
18. What is your character's biggest regret in life?
- Jonathan's biggest regret is suppressing his bisexuality and conforming to societal expectations. He mourns the relationships and experiences that he denied himself and wonders what his life would have been like had he embraced his true desires earlier.
19. Has your character ever been in love? If so, what happened?
- Yes, Jonathan has experienced love on several occasions. He was in a long-term relationship with a woman, driven by societal expectations, but the relationship eventually unravelled due to his inability to fully commit and the constant conflict between his desires and the expectations placed upon him. He is now also currently in a long term relationship which mimics his previous one.
20. Describe your character's style of clothing.
- Jonathan's style of clothing is refined and tailored, reflecting his affluent background and executive status. He favours well-cut suits in neutral tones, accessorized with tasteful accents such as pocket squares and luxury timepieces. His attention to detail extends to his grooming, always maintaining a polished appearance.
21. What is your character's most treasured possession?
- Jonathan's most treasured possession is a vintage Rolex watch passed down from his father. The watch symbolizes a connection to his family and serves as a reminder of the expectations placed upon him.
22. Does your character have any unique quirks or habits?
- Jonathan has a habit of meticulously organizing his belongings, finding solace in the order he creates amidst the chaos of his personal and professional life. He also possesses an innate ability to effortlessly recall minute details from his past, often surprising those around him with his exceptional memory.
23. What is your character's favourite place they've ever visited?
- Among the many places he has visited, Jonathan holds a special fondness for New York City. During his recent six-month stint working in the advertising agency's New York office, he fell in love with the city's energy, eclectic arts scene, and the bustling creativity that permeated every street corner.
24. Does your character have any recurring dreams or nightmares?
- Jonathan often dreams of being torn between the comfort of his current life and the desire for personal liberation. These dreams explore themes of longing, self-discovery, and the conflict between societal expectations and individual desires.
25. What are your character's long-term goals or aspirations?
- Jonathan aspires to become a partner
This image was generated with AI, the prompts were taken from a description of Jonathan’s clothes…but that come in a later post. AI can a useful tool in developing mood boards etc. , again this is something I will talk about in later posts.
With significant shoots, it's inevitable that things will take time, and there may be weeks between writing and revisiting the questionnaires. During that period, you tend to forget specific details about your characters. When you revisit the questions, it can be surprising, almost as if you are being introduced to the characters for the first time. As you continue to write more characters, you will start noticing connections that you may not have initially realized would exist. It can become a truly organic process, where the characters themselves begin to reveal unexpected connections and relationships.
Here is the next Character:
1. What is your character's full name?
- Matthew Reynolds
2. What is your character's age and birth date?
- Age: 32
- Birth date: November 20, 1956
3. Where was your character born and raised?
- Matthew was born in San Francisco, California, but was raised in Los Angeles since early childhood.
4. Describe your character's physical appearance.
- Matthew has a striking androgynous appearance with shoulder-length tousled brown hair and piercing green eyes. He has a slender build and stands at an average height. He often dresses in a mix of vintage and contemporary clothing, favouring bold and artistic fashion choices.
5. What is your character's occupation or profession?
- Matthew is a talented and innovative graphic designer in the art department of the same advertising agency where Jonathan works. He brings a unique artistic vision to his work, pushing boundaries and challenging traditional design conventions.
6. What are your character's hobbies or interests?
- Matthew is deeply passionate about various forms of art, including painting, photography, and sculpting. He often spends his free time exploring galleries, attending art exhibitions, and immersing himself in the vibrant art scene of 1980's Los Angeles. He is also an avid collector of vinyl records, drawn to the music's ability to evoke emotions and inspire creativity.
7. Is your character introverted or extroverted?
- Matthew tends to be more introverted, finding solace and inspiration in moments of solitude. He values deep connections and intellectual conversations over superficial interactions, though he can also be charismatic and engaging when in his creative element.
8. How does your character handle stress or conflict?
- Matthew approaches stress and conflict with a calm and introspective demeanour. He channels his emotions and frustrations into his art, using it as a means of expression and catharsis. He also values open communication and strives to resolve conflicts through thoughtful dialogue.
9. What are your character's strengths and weaknesses?
- Strengths: Matthew possesses an exceptional eye for aesthetics, able to create visually captivating designs that leave a lasting impression. He is innovative, unafraid to push boundaries and explore unconventional artistic techniques.
- Weaknesses: Matthew's introspective nature can sometimes lead to self-doubt and hesitancy when it comes to sharing his work. He is sensitive to criticism and can be prone to overthinking, often striving for perfection in his artistic endeavours.
10. Describe your character's relationship with their family.
- Matthew comes from a supportive and accepting family. They have embraced his artistic talents and his sexual orientation without judgment. They provide him with a sense of stability and encouragement, fostering an environment that allows his creativity to flourish.
11. What is your character's educational background?
- Matthew attended a renowned art school in Los Angeles, where he honed his skills in graphic design and fine arts. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Visual Arts, specializing in multimedia design.
12. Does your character have any special talents or abilities?
- Matthew possesses a natural talent for blending various artistic mediums, seamlessly integrating elements of painting, photography, and digital design. He has a keen sense of colour, composition, and storytelling, which enables him to create visually captivating and thought-provoking artwork.
13. What is your character's favourite book or movie?
- Matthew finds inspiration in the works of artists and visionaries. His favourite book is "The Picture of Dorian Gray" by Oscar Wilde, a tale that delves into the themes of art, beauty, and the dualities of human nature. In terms of movies, he is drawn to avant-garde films that challenge conventional storytelling and push the boundaries of visual expression.
14. Does your character have any pets?
- Yes, Matthew has a charming and affectionate rescue cat named Luna, whose calming presence brings him comfort and companionship.
15. What is your character's favourite food or cuisine?
- Matthew has a refined palate and appreciates culinary experiences that offer a fusion of flavours and unexpected combinations. He delights in exploring the city's diverse culinary scene, savouring everything from experimental fusion cuisine to delicate sushi rolls.
16. What are your character's political or social beliefs?
- Matthew aligns himself with progressive and inclusive social beliefs. He believes in the power of art to challenge societal norms, spark dialogue, and advocate for equality and justice. He is passionate about using his artistic platform to amplify marginalized voices and promote positive change.
17. Does your character have any phobias or fears?
- Matthew has a fear of mediocrity and a deep-seated anxiety about being creatively stagnant. He constantly seeks to evolve as an artist, fearing the loss of inspiration and the inability to make a meaningful impact through his work.
18. What is your character's biggest regret in life?
- Matthew's biggest regret is suppressing his true artistic voice and conforming to commercial expectations early in his career. He mourns the time wasted on projects that didn't align with his vision and wishes he had embraced his creative authenticity sooner.
19. Has your character ever been in love? If so, what happened?
- Yes, Matthew has experienced love. He had a passionate and transformative relationship with a fellow artist, but their paths eventually diverged as they pursued different artistic directions. While the breakup was difficult, Matthew cherishes the memories and personal growth that came from that relationship.
20. Describe your character's style of clothing.
- Matthew's style is eclectic and expressive, reflecting his artistic nature. He embraces bold patterns, unconventional silhouettes, and a mix of vintage and contemporary pieces. His wardrobe serves as an extension of his artistic vision, making a statement and inviting conversation.
21. What is your character's most treasured possession?
- Matthew's most treasured possession is a worn sketchbook filled with years of his artistic musings, personal reflections, and visual experiments. It represents his creative journey and serves as a tangible reminder of his growth as an artist.
22. Does your character have any unique quirks or habits?
- Matthew has a habit of meticulously observing the world around him, finding inspiration in the smallest details. He often carries a small pocket sketchbook to capture fleeting moments of inspiration or to jot down ideas that come to him spontaneously.
23. What is your character's favourite place they've ever visited?
- Matthew's favourite place he has ever visited is the vibrant city of Berlin. He was captivated by its thriving artistic scene, rich history, and the palpable sense of creative freedom that permeated the city.
24. Does your character have any recurring dreams or nightmares?
- Matthew often has vivid dreams where he finds himself immersed in surreal and abstract artistic landscapes. These dreams serve as a source of inspiration, sparking new ideas and pushing the boundaries of his artistic expression.
25. What are your character's long-term goals or aspirations?
- Matthew aspires to establish himself as a renowned artist, blurring the lines between traditional and digital art forms. He dreams of exhibiting his work in prestigious galleries and museums, using his art to inspire others and spark conversations about societal issues.
26. What is your character's favourite type of music?
- Matthew has an eclectic taste in music, drawn to genres that evoke emotions and inspire his creative process. He finds solace in ethereal electronic music, melodic indie folk, and introspective singer-songwriters.
27. Does your character have any hidden talents or secrets?
- Matthew has a hidden talent for playing the piano, a skill he developed during his childhood but rarely showcases publicly. He finds solace in creating melodies and exploring the emotional depth that music can evoke.
28. What is your character's favourite season and why?
- Matthew's favourite season is autumn. He appreciates the vibrant colours, the crispness in the air, and the sense of transformation that comes with the changing seasons. Autumn serves as a reminder of the transient nature of life, sparking his creativity and inspiring new artistic endeavours.
29. How does your character handle failure or setbacks?
- Matthew approaches failure or setbacks as learning experiences. He views them as opportunities for growth and self-reflection, channelling his emotions into his art to create something meaningful from adversity. He seeks support from his loved ones and values their perspectives to gain new insights and move forward.
30. Describe a memorable event from your character's childhood.
- A memorable event from Matthew's childhood was attending an art exhibition with his parents at a young age. It was his first encounter with the power of art to evoke emotions and tell stories. The experience ignited his passion for creativity, leaving an indelible mark on his artistic journey.
These answers should provide you with a more detailed understanding of Jonathan's gay lover, Matthew, and help you develop his character within the context of your story. - Matthew's favourite place he has ever visited is the vibrant city of Berlin. He was captivated by its thriving artistic scene, rich history, and the palpable sense of creative freedom that permeated the city.
24. Does your character have any recurring dreams or nightmares?
- Matthew often has vivid dreams where he finds himself immersed in surreal and abstract artistic landscapes. These dreams serve as a source of inspiration, sparking new ideas and pushing the boundaries of his artistic expression.
25. What are your character's long-term goals or aspirations?
- Matthew aspires to establish himself as a renowned artist, blurring the lines between traditional and digital art forms. He dreams of exhibiting his work in prestigious galleries and museums, using his art to inspire others and spark conversations about societal issues.
26. What is your character's favourite type of music?
- Matthew has an eclectic taste in music, drawn to genres that evoke emotions and inspire his creative process. He finds solace in ethereal electronic music, melodic indie folk.
Now that we have established some level of depth for the two characters, there are further options to consider. While some people might find this sufficient, I personally prefer to delve even deeper. There are several approaches you can take, either individually or collectively. One option is to write a dialogue scene for the planned tableau, which allows for the interaction between the characters. Alternatively, you can explore character development through creating a monologue. As someone who is not a writer, I find the monologue to be a more accessible way to connect with my characters. Writing back-and-forth dialogue can be challenging to do well, if I could write like Aaron Sorkin I’d be in Hollywood. A monologue provides a better starting point. It is crucial to keep reminding ourselves that we are photographers, not screenwriters. This process serves as scaffolding for our characters, designed to support them. Remember, our goal is to create a visual result.
I would like to share some captivating monologues that I find incredibly inspiring because they truly reveal the essence of the characters. These monologues provide a profound understanding of who the characters are, their unique perspectives, and the depth of their personalities, and yes there is some Sorkin.
Ok so here is your homework, create a character or maybe two. You can use my questions or create a set of your own. Answer tham all, in as much detail as you can. Now the next part is hard, but please bear with me, I know we are visual people but please try NOT to put a face to your character…yet. Its hard just try to blur them out in your mind.
Once you have answered the questions, put it away for a couple of days, then wish fresh eyes, re-visit it. Now write that monologue, try it out, act it out in front of mirror, or over and over in your head. In the next blog, I’ll share the monologue I create and I may even have a go at a dialogue.
This is not a monologue but an interesting interview with Bret Easton Ellis about how he created the character Patrick Bateman
