Les Paul at Carnegie Hall #413095
Title: Les Paul at Carnegie Hall
Artist: Chris Fritchie
Commissioned by: Stephen Arnold
Location: Outside Carnegie Hall, New York
Date of Capture: May 2nd, 2018, 3:00 AM
Camera: Canon EOS 5DS R
Lens: EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM at 32.00mm
Exposure: 2.5 sec at f/13, ISO 100
Lighting: Two off-camera Canon flashes
Registration with IPAC: January 8, 2024
About the Image:
"Les Paul at Carnegie Hall" is a stunning tribute to both musical and photographic artistry. Commissioned by Stephen Arnold, a luminary in the broadcast music industry whose compositions reach over a billion people worldwide, this image is a confluence of iconic symbols and historical significance.
Captured outside the illustrious Carnegie Hall in New York, the photograph features a Les Paul Guitar, signed by the legendary Les Paul himself. Les Paul guitars, crafted by Gibson, have been synonymous with musical excellence since their introduction in the 1950s. Known for their solid body electric design, these guitars revolutionized the music world and became a staple for musicians across various genres.
The image resonates with the legacy of Les Paul, not just through the guitar but also through its setting – Carnegie Hall, a beacon of musical excellence. The timing of the photograph, taken in the quiet of 3:00 AM, adds to its mystique, capturing a moment of stillness in a city that never sleeps.
The technical precision of this shot is evident in its clarity and composition, achieved through a Canon EOS 5DS R camera with an EF 24-105mm lens. The extended exposure of 2.5 seconds at f/13, ISO 100, allowed for capturing the intricate details and the ambient nighttime atmosphere. The strategic use of two off-camera Canon flashes illuminates the subject perfectly, creating a blend of shadow and light that gives the image depth and drama.
This photograph, titled "Les Paul at Carnegie Hall," played a significant role in Chris' journey towards earning a Master Photography degree with the Professional Photographers of America (PPA). It stands as a testament to Chris Fritchie's skill in blending technical prowess with creative vision, immortalizing a moment that speaks volumes of history, music, and artistic expression.