“Explore the use of anonymity to express both that which is common to all of us and the uniqueness that stands out even when the most obvious parts of us are hidden.”

I feel that monochrome is the perfect format for this idea. So, what can you tell about these subjects? 

“Explore silhouettes, shadows, orientation, and other ways to mask your subject.”  

Back in the 19th century, before photography was available to the masses, silhouettes were a very popular form of portraiture. How distinct is a black profile?  What can you tell about this subject? Male or female? Young or old? 

“If portraits aren’t your thing, get even more creative with your use of shadows, reflections, animals, and patterns to represent a sense of anonymity.”

My thing is mostly about nature photography and about the impact of one dominant species on the planet – humans. I like to think of myself as a Wilderness Advocate. This is my idea of a self-portrait, taken very near to Bears Ears National Monument and Canyon of the Ancients. It makes me think of the possibility that homo sapiens will be just a shadow in the rock some day, as we were at one point in the past. Sunrise at the canyon edge is a very peaceful time. I enjoyed blending in to the surroundings and finding a quiet place of anonymity.  

In case you missed it, I’m the shadow sitting cross-legged  on the bright part of the rock in the upper right, elbows out, taking the picture.

A Face in the Crowd