Brief Introduction to Grunge Photography
The word “Grunge” is often associated with a particular music style that grew popular in the 1990s. It carries a rough, edgy attitude demonstrated by loud, distorted guitar riffs, heavy drum sequences, and strongly-worded lyrics. In this article, we talk about the brief introduction to grunge photography.
The same concept applies to grunge photography. Such images portray a rather dark, slightly foreboding feel that evokes powerful emotions, making it a popular style among photography enthusiasts, overall.
If you’re the least bit interested in this particular style of photography, read on through this article.
What exactly is grunge photography?
The word may be self-explanatory, but there is still a lot left to wonder about what grunge photography really is. For one, it thrives more on the post-processing work to accent the emotions they were trying to evoke.
Grunge photos are all the use of multiple layers and textures on the final edits. But as for the shooting itself, photographers make use of old lenses or instant cameras.
The key here is to create that lo-fi, imperfect effect to capture the full grunge experience, in terms of a photograph.
Tips to enhance your grunge photography
The photo shoot
A good grunge photograph portrays a somewhat distorted, disheveled look. In this case, old or antique objects are the most relevant subjects to use. This can range from old, dilapidated buildings, broken down cars, and mature trees.
People, of course, are the best subjects to use, since emotions can be expressed through certain poses and facial expressions.
Experts advise using multiple angles and perspectives to build a story around the subjects. What’s important is to go as non-conventional as possible, since grunge is all about standing out.
Another tip to go by when it comes to shooting would be to focus on highlights amid shadows. The overall effects should enhance that grungy feel, especially with the contrast between light and dark.
The equipment
As mentioned earlier, the more lo-fi the final photo is, the better it is for grunge photography. That being said, a digital camera or a DSLR might not be a good option, especially if you want to do away with too much post-processing on your photo.
For this particular purpose, either a Lomo or pinhole camera would be best-suited for the job. The same goes with a 35 mm film camera, or any film camera for that matter.
Any of these pieces of equipment help give off that natural grungy look and feel, which no digital camera can do as well.
Post-processing
Natural, unprocessed photos are indeed impressive, but doing some enhancements on photos isn’t that sinful. In fact, it is one of the most common methods to achieve the best grungy look.
One way to do it is by adding that darkness factor by playing around with the contrast levels of Photoshop or Lightroom. The more dark spaces there are, the more of that desired look you will get.
If you’re using a film camera, cross processing can also work. Developing a negative film like how one would with a positive slide (and vice versa) renders interesting shifts in hue.
Why go with grunge photography
The great thing about this particular style of photography is its versatility. Use the grunge photography approach on any subject, and you can expect favorable results, no matter what.
Try it out for yourself and have fun, both in the shoot and post-processing. If you have any comments and ideas to about our brief introduction to grunge photography, please share them down below.
