This week we shot interviews at the home of the Womens Circus, at the Footscray Drill Hall with committee members Penelope Bartlau and Devon Pearce.
The day started off deciding the backdrops for the interviews. We chose the waiting room located in the entrance for Penelope as it had an abundance of quirky nick-knacks and intriguing photographs hanging on the wall. We placed Devon in the activity space in front of a neon sign that spells out ‘Women’s’. I assumed the role of the interviewer whilst Riley, Harriet and Cini took on the roles of videographers.
We used LED lights with filters for consistent and flattering lighting on the subjects. The tripod we were given on the day turned out to be incredibly flimsy and unstable, but it was not too much of a nuisance as we finally got it to stay levelled; although it did halt the filming process.
Devons interview was unplanned, the only person we had corresponded with and had planned on interviewing was Penelope, yet she informed us that she was willing to participate so we decided to interview her also. We figured the more opinions from those who run the organisation, the broader understanding of how the circus is presently run. Although the questions were not tailored to her, they were definitely broad enough to apply to her role in the compant. After both interviews were completed we shot pick ups in and around the drill hall in order to have establishing shots during the editing process, to give the audience a visual idea of what the practice space looks like.
I believe the ladies gave very thoughtful answers to the questions, taking each one into careful consideration. They each gave a different take and a fresh perspective. Penelope provided passionate details on the inner workings of the circus but also provided personal anecdotes, whilst Devon highlighted the importance of LGBTQI representation and rights; together their opinions formed a well rounded representation of the values the Womens Circus upholds.
The day of shooting was not over yet, though. We also had another shoot at night during one of the senior circus classes in order to capture out photographic essays. Prior to the day of shooting I researched contemporary photographers projects to gather inspiration. One of the works I was most inspired by was Rod McNicols’ “The Faces of Fitzroy” which featured multiple portraits of residents of Fitzroy. Simply structured, the subjects centered and their composition natural – these pieces have a certain authenticity that is a source of inspiration for me. I want to capture the genuine essence that McNicols did, in my photographs. I was also inspired by the fluidity and composition of Larry Finks athletic photography. His pieces vary between behind the scene moments of solitude and euphoric triumphs in the boxing ring. The high spirit and atmosphere in his photos are almost tangible. I would like to emulate his style in this way, to truly bring the performers to life.
With this in mind we headed to Northcote Town Hall where the class is held weekly. The Hall is an extremely formal, well preserved, Victoria Era building, not one where you would assume a circus class to be held. We followed the signage to a spacious room filled with women and lined with padded mats. We introduced ourselves and joined in on the warm up routine to loosen up everyone nerves. All in all there was approximately 25 women in the room who greeted us graciously. They were all willing to be photographed and filmed to our delight, as it made the task at hand far easier and allowed breathing room for successful shots. In the proceeding 2 hours I was filled with awe as I photographed these women performing. At first glance you might assume these women were not capable of these feats, yet I was continuously proven wrong as they transformed their bodies confidently. The trust they have with their classmates was purely evident and very touching to witness. We photographed them solo and in group activities. There were so many beautiful moments to capture I didn’t think my shutter would close quick enough! That is one of the limitations of athletic photography, the perfect shot is easy to miss so you must constantly be alert.
Joining in on the class was a lot of fun and a real privilege. The best part by far was meeting the women, who were extremely lovely people. Attached below are some of my favourite shots!
