Photographer: Lee M. Turner, Bali, Indonesia.
Getting the Shot: The image is the result of a quirky convergence of isolation, inspiration, and playful improvisation. The island of Lombok (Indonesia) is situated 25 miles to the east of Bali, across the Lombok Strait. The tropical isolation providing the postcard-perfect backdrop is Lombok's southern coastline, replete with pristine white sand beaches, teal blue surf, few tourists, and an endless procession of colorful bouquets of locally produced tapestries, called ikat, being paraded across the seascape by enterprising local vendors.
The Details: As a photographer, I was captivated and inspired by the contrast of the ikat's bold colors against the backdrop of the seascape's muted pastels. I approached a vendor who was at rest and playfully asked if she would 'model' her wares for me. Perhaps it was the audience, or perhaps it was the relaxed and isolated setting, or perhaps it was the chance to show her beautiful wares while indulging her free-spirit. Whatever the motivation her performance was entertaining as it was persuasive. This particular image captures her as she pauses at the end of her improvisational dance, just before she doffs the yellow ikat in favor of yet another in her dazzling collection. In the end I purchased four ikat's, if not for the beauty of the ikat alone, then surely for the memory of their presentation.
Photo: Lee M. Turner, Shot with a Canon 5D w/ 35mm 1.4L Canon Lens; 1/200 @ 5.6; ISO 50; off-camera SB 550 strobe.
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