Mark Cornick is an urban photography who sees London as a futuristic playground full of powerful forms, metallic architecture and atmospheric light. TurnsPro sponsored the Expert Winner Award for Cornick in the Large Depth of Field contest. Cornick also won the expert winner award in the Large Depth of Field competition, sponsored by TurnsPro. As you can see Cornick’s style is distinctive, thoughtful, and evocative. He shares his process for creating these striking urban photographs using Canon cameras and Lee filters.
1. You can find Urban Photography Everywhere
Any image taken in a urban area can be considered urban photography. This is especially true if the image is focused on architecture, streets, or interaction between people with their environment.
Mark says, “In my London-based photographs, I like to create engaging images of urban landscapes, which border on abstract.” “Over the years, I have learned to look for clean lines, symmetry, minimal compositions, modern architecture with lots of light reflections and glass.
2. Photograph Urban Scenes in Black and White
These images show that urban photography in black and white creates a more moody and dramatic atmosphere. This is especially true when using tonal ranges as well as the effects of light and shadows. This type of aesthetic can really be highlighted in post-production.
Mark says, “I will always shoot raw to give my images greater flexibility.” ‘In my instance, 99% of post production takes place in Lightroom Classic CC. Most of that work focuses on contrast, vibrancy and ND grads. This process is not without its challenges. There will be your own preferences and aesthetics, so experiment with the sliders to find what suits you best.
3. Take a look at how weather effects a scene
Black & White urban photography is great because it allows you to add dynamic elements to your image at any hour of the day or in any weather condition.
4. Filters can be used to make your images Stand Out
Mark recommends that you invest in the Lee Filters system. It includes both a 6-stop filter and a 10-stop filter. You could combine them for large 4-minute exposures and 16-stop filters when you are out photographing urban photography.
Mark says that filters are a good investment. Although Lee filters and other premium brands are more expensive, they can produce great results in all genres of photography, including urban and landscape photography. Make the investment if you are serious about long-exposure shooting. It will be a wise decision.
These filters allow us to take long exposures throughout the day, creating some really amazing images. This is especially useful for urban photography, as static buildings will not be affected by the filter while clouds will create amazing motion. Water will transform into milk, and people will appear as ethereal blurs.