Thomas Struth 


What I feel I now have to learn is how to analyse an image that does not appeal to me as a subject matter.
I find it very hard to explain, it is not that I dislike the images because I find them technically outstanding and appreciate the compositional elements, thought and concept, yet the actual subject matter does not stimulate enough for me to make that connection and instill the feeling of me wanting to look at more.

Technically the images are sharp, the photographer has already decided on his aperture to gain the best use of depth of field within his confined environment. Utilising a wide angle lens he is able to compose and capture a large number of family members, whilst keeping them all in focus. You can also see that the photographer has took full control and placed each family member within the composition to best utilise the available space and give a good sense of balance to the final image.
I get a strong sense of juxtaposition between vertical and horizontal, which helps to give a strong solid structure to the composition. This structure would also lead me to a sense of 'pace & rhythm', you would tend to flow through the image rather than struggle, they are easy to read and digest.
There is a definite synergy to the final images from the use of colour to help balance the composition and give an overall calmness and harmony to what could be an otherwise very active photograph, the term controlled chaos springs to mind.
Again I do not get the impression of mindless documentation, but rather a feeling of a strong concept where the photographer is utilising his vast experience whilst  he developed a consistent personal style that aides in the final image communicating effectively to the intended audience.
In conclusion I can not deny that for a genre that does not stimulate my personal taste, Thomas Struth is probably for me one of the few photographers that can take the documentary family portrait with aplomb.