Permalink 11 June 2007 at 10:37 by Alexandra Bortkiewicz
Posted under Picture needs

© Brand X PicturesThis month our picture needs cover the topic of science and research, a broad subject area which has been distilled into 3 primary categories.
- The focus is on creating images that are iconic of this field as well as addressing current specialist topics like DNA, nanotechnology, genetics etc. To keep abreast of new areas of research or development it’s worth subscribing to magazines like New Scientist and Scientific American.
- Stylistically it’s recommended to aim for simple graphic compositions, no distracting elements, with a futuristic feel which can work on different levels and for different markets.
- Authenticity is paramount, particularly for editorial markets, ensuring all procedures are correctly conducted using state of the art equipment with the focus on a “high tec” feel.
There is more advice on shooting different subject matter in Photographer tips.
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Processes from A-Z
- Washing hands: Techniques, soaping, rinsing and drying.
- Sample taking: Blood syringed, tongue swab or hair sample.
- Result analysis: Microscope, x-ray, litmus paper or charts.
- Modern research: Gene, cells, virus’, DNA, cloning, IVF.
- Still life: Syringe and metal plates, needle/swab against skin, Petri dishes, test-tubes, conical and other glass containers.
- Real Life: Overview of laboratory and scientists working in environment, looking over the shoulder of scientists examining test results. Macro shots of bacteria and cells.
- Example images of science processes
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Protection and prevention
- Protective clothing: Wearing, washing, disposing and storage.
- Health and safety procedures: signs, bins and unobstructed areas.
- Cleaning and disposal: Special disposal bags for needles and chemicals.
- Double checks: Observation, comparison and confirmation.
- Still Life: Line of white coats, gloved hands in sterile box, hazard warning signs.
- Real Life: Scientist carefully putting on protective clothing such as gloves, goggles and caps.
- Technicians: Putting lids on bins and cleaners washing and drying floors.
- Scientists: Carefully passing specimens to each other and double checking each others results.
- Example images of protection and prevention
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Storage and preservation
- Sample storing and labelling: Organisation and accuracy of storage / labelling.
- Sample transportation: Packing and moving trolleys, trays or containers.
- Computer data: Use of computers in labs for data input and info.
- Lids, preservatives and dark rooms: Liquids, air tight containers and use of infrared.
- Still Life: Liquid in containers, syringes filled with blood.
- Unusual views: Inside freezer and unusual angles in sterile areas.
- Real Life: Gloved hands taking specimen out of freezer, lab technician carefully moving containers to safe place. Lab technician putting away or looking for files.
- Example images of storage and preservation
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Student scientists
- Reference books: Hands flicking, pointing and underlining.
- Aim for accuracy: Comparing notes, counting and concentrating.
- Presentations: White board with student pointing and talking.
- Teaching and instructing: Teachers/students questioning and demonstrating.
- Still Life: Molecular structure, Bunsen burners, glass rods, shelves of reference books.
- Real Life: Lab technicians examining data on a light box, reflection in student’s goggles of Bunsen burner flame. Students helping each other put on masks.
- Example images of studying science
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