Have you ever been passionate or dedicated about anything? The renowned photographer Gordon Parks got a chance to cover the boxing champion, Muhammad Ali for the Life magazine in 1966. The photographer Gordon Parks had taken close-ups of Muhammad Ali, revealing his courtesy and charm.
Gordon Parks' photograph titled 'Muhammad Ali Trains in Hyde Park, London, England, 1966', three trees through which sun’s rays pass with a foggy background with bushes. It is a black-and-white photograph. Muhammad Ali was in his training outfit. He had a training pose. A small pathway can be seen covered with grass. The picture illustrates Muhammad Ali's training which displays his passion and dedication towards boxing and the photographer Gordon Parks uses angle, light, and composition to exhibit it.
Firstly, the lighting of the picture attracts me as not many effects have been used. The face isn’t much visible, it’s dark. The black-and-white picture grabs the viewer’s eye on his training rather than the face. The lighting in the picture gives us more clarity. The sun’s rays that pass through the trees make the picture more beautiful. Gordon Parks makes us realize that even black-and-white pictures can talk to the viewer.
Secondly, the angle of the picture is quite interesting. Muhammad Ali was made to stand in such a way that it could be clicked at a perfect angle. The picture is clicked from a side angle, which makes us focus on his posture. The sun’s rays and the foggy background make it realistic. The picture is clicked in a vertical way, covering all angles of the area. The distance between the camera and Muhammad Ali is not that far, so, as a result, it helps us visualize the image in a better way.
Thirdly, the composition has a great impact on the picture. Everything in the picture has been arranged in a very systematic way. The foggy background tells us that it is early morning; it gives him a peaceful mind. It helps him concentrate on his training. Muhammad Ali's outfit has a hoodie that covers his face. He separates himself from everything that’s happening around him during his training.
In conclusion, the lighting, angle, and composition point out the journey of a famous boxer. Only true dedication, determination, and passion can lead a person to be a real champion. All credits go to Gordon Parks' captures. Gordon Parks' picture touches the soul of the viewer.