These stark and haunting images of the California landscape by San Francisco-based photographer Nathan Wirth were skilfully captured on film using an infrared lens.
Part of the ongoing series 'Slices of Silence,' these ominous images were taken around the abandoned countryside of the Californian counties of Marin and Sonoma. Through the view of an infrared lens, the clouded over gray Californian sky becomes a darkened backdrop to the grassy hills and isolated trees that make up these foreboding scenes.
The striking infrared effect succeeds in putting the gnarled and solitary trees towards the center stage of these images. These once forgotten relics become the primary subject of focus to the viewer, and become almost life-like with their striking presence and otherworldly appearance.
Desolate Infrared Photography
Photographer Nathan Wirth Views California Through an Infrared Lens
Trend Themes
1. Infrared Landscape Photography - New technology and techniques in infrared photography create a niche market for artistic landscape photography.
2. Abandoned Landscapes - Exploring abandoned environments through photography highlights the decay of neglected places and creates opportunities for new artistic interpretations.
3. Focus on Isolated Trees - Isolating specific elements of a natural landscape through photography can create unique artistic expressions that highlight unexpected elements of the environment.
Industry Implications
1. Photography - Photographers can explore the latest technology and techniques in infrared photography to create new artistic expressions and appeal to a niche market.
2. Art - By exploring abandoned landscapes, artists have opportunities to create unique interpretations of decay and the effects of neglect on the natural world.
3. Tourism - Creating opportunities for visitors to explore and interpret abandoned landscapes through guided photography tours can create new opportunities for tourism in neglected areas.