Worldwide Pinhole Photography Day 2019

Annual pinhole photography event. 

All photographs created with a 3D printed camera, on April 28, 2019.

All photos by Laura Cofrin, except the first, which was shot by Gavin Brent.

Ilford FP4+, and Kodak Ektar (expired) films.

Pinhole is a concept

Why pinhole? I am often asked that question. Why would I choose a photographic method that only adds time, difficulty, and complication to my art practice?
'Why' indeed. It is exactly this forced slowing down that I embrace. It is the purposeful placement of these technological hurdles that allows me to focus in on the craft itself, the image created is secondary to the process. The experimental nature of the method negates any control over the resultant image. The pinhole is the perfect analogy of my chosen path, one which is narrow, and not easily traversed. A rare experience captured in print that deserves longer contemplation.
Calling my self a photographer, or more specifically, a pinhole photographer is too limiting. I may better describe myself as a conceptual artist.
As I am updating the resume, I realize I am having trouble living up to the self appointed label of Pinhole Photographer. Yes, I make pinhole photographs, but I also have an interest in conceptual works. Sometime this involves performance art, certain documented actions, or elaborate installations in which the viewer experiences the photographs and/or videos. I am always experimenting, trying to discover new ways to utilize the camera, exploring alternatives to normal shooting and showing.

Sage and Sky

Sage and Sky, pinhole photograph by Laura Brent, 2013

Summer is a time for traveling, and long road trips are the perfect opportunity for uninterrupted thoughts. The southwest is the perfect location for these wanderings, with its brilliant light and expansive air. I feel refreshed and energized having recently returned from those magic desert places. The ideas, mulled over with the miles, have incubated and are ready to come forth through new works.

Road Trip, pinhole photograph by Laura Brent, 2013

 The journey is long, an unending path. The quest - for beauty - in the eye, the mind, and the heart.

American Beauty, pinhole photograph by Laura Brent, 2013

 "To calculate on the unforeseen is perhaps exactly the paradoxical operation that life most requires of us."
"...one does not get lost but loses oneself, with the implication that it is a conscious choice, a chosen surrender, a psychic state achievable through geography"
          - Rebecca Solnit, A Field Guide to Getting Lost

Tommy Knocker Trail, pinhole photograph by Laura Brent, 2013

Why wander? Will the destination offer up a respite? What discovery will come from an aimless ambling? Looking for the happy happenstance, the quirky coincidence, the surprise prize. What spirits are leading the way? How well do you know them? If you are aware, you can almost see them. And remember, at the end, we all become the dirt of the roads, forever left in the rear-view mirror of life. I plan on leaving something behind.

New Pinhole Project

Laura Brent; pinhole photograph, silver gelatin contact print

I have started a new pinhole project, re-visiting an old series I shot back in 2008, "Toyland", combining it now with the pinhole camera. Using vintage toys, dollhouses, and handmade dioramas, I create small stages, positioning my 'models', evoking a possibly frightening narrative. The imagery is a bit reminiscent of film noir, and the viewer must look closely to determine what they are seeing. The objects pictured are easily confused with reality. The small size of the camera allows me to obtain a vantage point unlike any from the previous project. Often I am shooting blind, placing the camera into the scene, at a location that I am unable to witness with my own eye. The project will debut at Valhall Arts February 1, 2013. Stay tuned for more details.

New site for my pinhole photographs

Sunrise Over Hernandez, Laura Brent

As a way to streamline the viewing of my pinhole photographs, I have created a new website.
Visit laurabrent.org to see them in all their glory.  Please take a look and let me know what you think.