Friday, February 20, 2009

Concrete Proof

Grand Colonial Style, From Every Angle

Photograph copyright: DAVID McMAHON


Fighter pilots and aircrew gunners in World War II always said the key to survival was being able to swivel their heads constantly, to search the sky for enemy aircraft. It's probably a great attribute for a photographer as well, to look up, down and sideways in search of common sights that produce uncommon effects.

I shot this frame as I walked down Flinders Street on Monday. This stately old building was right opposite me and I was struck by how well maintained the facade is. Nice brickwork. Fresh paint. Window sills in good nick.

That's when I realised that the clear blue sky and the main dome reflected in the windows was the perfect foil for the strong colours and lines of the building's exterior. I was in a hurry, but I'm glad I stopped for a few seconds to take this shot.

(Extra, extra, read all about it: I've been interviewed here.)

Visit MamaGeek and Cecily, creators of Photo Story Friday.

22 comments:

Wayne said...

Great photo Friday

Mojo said...

Wow... with shots like this you could follow "The Doors" with "The Windows". This is marvelous -- even without the reflection.

Chris said...

It's amazing what we see, when we stop to look around.

I think the symmetry of this shot is outstanding.

Steph said...

That's just beautiful.

skywind said...

Photo shoot is pretty good, too beautiful. Reflect the characteristics of the building.

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Unknown said...

This really reminds me of the facade of Harrods!

Jeff B said...

Another great capture and look at that, the tables have been turned. The one who brings us so many great interview on the Sunday Roast is now being interviewed. I'll have to go by and have a look.

Natalie said...

I really enjoyed the interview, David. Congratulations.
I loved that line that one of your readers spends more time on your blog than you do! Classic.

Amazed at the one hour thing - Impressive. :D

Debbie in CA : ) said...

I love to come by and sigh
at the beauty found by this guy.

Always a treat on authorblog.

Glad you paused and focused. : D

Hilary said...

You always find more inside one photo than most of us would have realized exists.

Anonymous said...
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introspection said...

Photo par excellence...!
I read 'Rebuilt in 1891' too. You are a phtography Diva, and we are all lucky that you share your shots with us, along with details on each shot. It has given me a some insight into photography. I think I am learning to appreciate art.
Thanks again....!

Edward Yablonsky said...

Common sights producing uncommon effects. Yo uhave the eye to capture worlds in film . I really enjoyed your photo of the windows and of the doors.

stan said...

Tt's wad I like to do too - pause and ponder and then snap. nice shot

Deepanjan Ghosh said...

reminds me of the cover of led zeppelin's physical graffiti

Working Mum said...

Another great photo. We have lots of buildings like that in Manchester - my dad taught me to look up in cities to see this kind of wonderful architecture otherwise all you see are McDonalds and Marks and Spencer shops underneath them!

Unknown said...

That is a magnificent building! And I do love the reflections in the windows!

The Acolyte Tao said...

Awesome looking building, I love architecture. x.x I'm a sucker for it and photography.

Namaste.

Carrie and Troy Keiser said...

Love the reflection, but what I loved even more is the building. I like the brickwork and the center row of windows how they bubble out and look so inviting.
read you interview, WOW so many visitors! Congrats on such a great following and as I have said in the past I do love coming here for what I learn and the smiles you bring. Keep it up!

MamaGeek @ Works For Us said...

You framed it perfectly, and I adore that texture David!

tiarastantrums said...

Great PSF

Significant Snail said...

What a beautiful building...I'd like to live behind those windows!