Photographer Luca Battaglia, known for capturing the essence of places both urban and desolate, offers a mesmerizing view of Europe’s iconic carousels through his captivating images. His series, Ticket non remboursable (“non-refundable ticket”), transforms these classic amusement rides into dreamy landscapes through the art of long exposure photography.
Dreamy Carousel Photos: A Glimpse into Nostalgia
These enchanting images draw inspiration from the history of carousels, tied to the medieval tradition of Luca Battaglia. Centuries ago, these rides evolved from jousting events, where elaborate equine displays were part of grand tournaments. Mechanical carousels emerged during the late 18th century, showcasing intricate craftsmanship that Battaglia highlights in his work.
More Than Just an Attraction
For Battaglia, carousels are sacred portals to memory and childhood. Growing up in Milan, he recalls a beloved carousel now vanished. “The project began with my fascination for carousels, not simply as attractions, but as objects connected to memory, childhood, movement, and the transformation of public space,” Battaglia tells Colossal. By employing long exposures, he aims to transcend their physical form, revealing ethereal, abstract constructs in his photography.
An Abstract Blend of Lights and Movement
The photographs capture carousels as ethereal forms where ornamentation and detail dissolve into surreal patterns. “Technically, I usually work with an ND256 or ND1000 neutral density filter, which allows me to make exposures of approximately 20 to 30 seconds,” Battaglia explains. This technique blurs moving elements into fluid lines of light and color, producing images that seem almost otherworldly. These mesmerizing visuals are a testament to his unique vision and technique.
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His work underscores the notion of carousels as objects of timeless wonder, drawing on personal and collective nostalgia. Explore more of Battaglia’s enchanting visuals and follow his journey on Instagram for more captivating imagery.
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Source: thisiscolossal.com
Frequently asked questions
How does Luca Battaglia photograph carousels?
Luca Battaglia uses long exposure photography, typically employing ND256 or ND1000 neutral density filters, allowing him to make exposures of approximately 20 to 30 seconds. This technique blurs moving elements into fluid lines of light and color.
What inspires Luca Battaglia’s carousel photography?
Luca Battaglia is inspired by the history of carousels, which are tied to medieval jousting events, and his personal fascination with them as objects connected to memory and childhood. He views carousels as sacred portals to memory and childhood, transforming their physical form through photography.
Where can I see more of Battaglia’s work?
You can explore more of Luca Battaglia’s enchanting visuals and follow his journey on Instagram for more captivating imagery.