Brian Belefant was recently named Photographer of the Year by the
International Color Awards for images he photographed through various
liquids.
Several years ago, Belefant designed a filtration system that would
allow him to photograph through liquids. Since then he’s traveled the
world, creating photographs which get their unique flavor from rather
unique flavors.
He photographed Portugal through a filter containing 20-year-old
tawny port. For Spain he created a tincture of saffron. He shot
Turkey through Turkish coffee. He’s also photographed through sodas
in California, fruit juices in Ecuador, maple syrup in Canada, and
Luzianne Tea in the American South.
Each image uses a liquid that is relevant to the subject, culturally,
emotionally, or philosophically. One of his favorite shots is of pigs
photographed through a citrus marinade.
Creating these photographs is not as simple as pouring coffee onto a
camera lens. Each formulation starts with an idea, then is honed to
deliver just the right level of filtration. The process can be
extremely time-consuming, often requiring weeks of testing to get the
correct result.
In order to craft exactly the right look for each of his photographs,
Belefant further manipulates the color palette by processing his
negatives in unusual chemistry. He then scans the negatives into his
computer and prints the images digitally on archival paper.
The results are powerful, beautiful, and sometimes humorous.
This is not the first time Belefant’s unique vision has earned him
international acclaim. In 2004, he took First Prize, Third Prize, and
twelve Honorable Mentions in the International Photography Awards.
His work was also selected for inclusion in juried shows at the
Period Gallery and the Griffin Photography Museum. And in 2005 he was
honored as Apple Computer’s Featured Artist, which meant that
thousands of people had an opportunity to experience his unique
vision through the company’s iCards.
The Photographer of the Year award, however, is the most prestigious.
Seven of Belefant’s images—which include a First Prize-winning image
in the Nature category and a Third Prize-winning image in the Fine
Art category—will be included in a commemorative book. And an
international photographic exhibit is planned, to be held in Brazil.
What’s next for Belefant? He plans to shoot Jalisco, Mexico through
tequila. And dreams of traveling to Scotland to shoot through some
fine single malt whisky.
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