I’ve spent a considerable amount of time photographing graffiti and street art. My primary purpose is to document what I see, use it for future study or reference, and then selectively post it on my Instagram account.
During this process, I’ve learned a few things that might be helpful to others engaged in this kind of activity.
Keep It Simple
I try not to overly complicate what I take photos of and how I take the pictures. One reason I use a smartphone is that it’s convenient and sufficient for my purposes. Using a digital camera could offer more control, but I find it unnecessary for what I aim to achieve. This approach means I don’t need to worry about settings like aperture, depth of field, or lighting. Other than cropping, I avoid post-processing my images (e.g. using filtering capability on social media websites, etc).
Learn from the Masters
To improve my photographs, I spend time browsing through classic graffiti and street art books. The work of Martha Cooper and Henry Chalfant, such as Subway Art, and Martha Cooper and Roger Gastman’s Spray Nation: 1980s NYC Graffiti Photographs are important in this respect. More contemporary photographers of graffiti not to be missed is Katherine Lorimer (a.k.a. Luna Park), the author of (Un)Sanctioned. I also follow a lot of instagram feeds that feature photos of graffiti and street art. I ask myself what I like about the photos and what I dislike. This helps me understand how the content can be captured and presented to the viewer. Then I then try to integrate this into my work.
Integrate Life into the Art
To remove the static feel of my photos of graffiti and street art, and to provide additional context, I often include people, animals, or means of transportation when possible, capturing the art as part of everyday life. This approach brings a dynamic element to the images and situates the graffiti and street art within its urban public space.
Revisit and Document Changes
I like to return to same surfaces where graffiti and street art has appeared, after a significant period to see what changes may have occurred. Although this isn’t always possible due to my travels, it adds a layer of historical documentation to my work.
Experiment with Angles
I take several photos of the graffiti from different angles and sometimes wait for people to walk into the frame. While I tend to photograph at eye level or the side of buildings, I also play with diagonal angles, which are frequent in my photos. This experimentation keeps my work varied and visually interesting.
Focus on Interesting Pieces
My goal is to find and photograph interesting pieces, including those that combine graffiti and street art or are placed in unusual settings. I’m rarely in search of a particular writer or artist; instead, photographing graffiti and street art is typically a spontaneous part of my urban exploration. Sometimes it is the contradictions inherent in the piece that captures my interest.
Capture the Moment
Sometimes, I stop my bike or car to take photos of a particular piece. When I have free time, I review my photos, narrow down the best images, and occasionally post them on Instagram. I also like to create videos for large walls or particularly intense images, adding another dimension to my documentation.
A lot of taking good photos of graffiti and street art can be achieved through experimentation. Thus taking multiple photos of the same item might end up producing something interesting and engaging.
Photo Credit
Photographer: Jeffrey Ian Ross, Ph.D.
title pleasure shop graffiti Turin
https://jeffreyianross.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_5639-rotated.jpg640480Jeffrey Ian Rosshttps://jeffreyianross.com/wp-content/uploads/jeffrey-ian-ross-logo-04.pngJeffrey Ian Ross2024-07-27 22:36:262024-07-30 18:07:00A Few Things I’ve Learned About Photographing Graffiti and Street Art
Periodically students ask me what I consider to be the “hot topics” in Criminology/Criminal Justice. Although I understand their curiosity, and attempts to be strategic, I always ask them what do they mean by “hot topics” and why they believe focusing on these will benefit them.
Most students are looking for research ideas for their master’s thesis or doctoral dissertations, hoping that by focusing on these subjects, they will open up more doors for themselves. For master’s students, a good topic can help them transition to a top PhD program. For doctoral students, it can mean securing an academic job in a great university or a position in a respectable criminal justice agency.
However, there are several reasons why chasing hot topics might be ill-advised:
Relevance Over Time: By the time you complete your research, the topic might no longer be “hot.”
Research Quality: Focusing on a popular subject doesn’t guarantee quality research nor scholarship.
Supervisor Expertise: Your supervisors might not have the expertise to guide you effectively.
Sustained Interest: You need to stay interested in the topic throughout your research.
Instead of solely focusing on current trends, consider the following strategies:
Enduring Questions: Choose enduring questions and problems within the field, such as gun control, youth violence, and prison overcrowding. These issues remain relevant and impactful.
Distinguish Topics and Questions: Understand the difference between broad topics (e.g., police use of force) and specific research questions (e.g., what factors lead to correctional officer deviance?).
Innovative Solutions: Think of innovative solutions to longstanding problems (e.g., new protocols, technology, etc.). This approach not only makes your research relevant but also increases your marketability to potential employers.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, research on the virus’s impact on the criminal justice system was heavily funded. In contrast, enduring questions like the causes of youth violence remain relevant regardless of trends. Ultimately, while it’s useful to be aware of trending topics, focusing on innovative solutions to longstanding issues will sustain your interest and make your research impactful and relevant in the long run.
Photo Credit
Title: Fire
Photographer: liz west
https://jeffreyianross.com/wp-content/uploads/303873311_65c1d633b7_o-scaled.jpg16372560Jeffrey Ian Rosshttps://jeffreyianross.com/wp-content/uploads/jeffrey-ian-ross-logo-04.pngJeffrey Ian Ross2024-07-20 21:48:382024-09-22 12:16:55What are the “Hot” Research Topics and Questions in Criminology/Criminal Justice?
Despite the global popularity of Japanese cuisine, finding truly authentic Washoku outside Japan remains a challenge. After eating at many Japanese restaurants, some not just mediocre but exceptionally bad, has underscored the difficulty of finding genuine Washoku. Washoku is not any type of Japanese food. This type of cuisine is a culinary art form, not only celebrated for its aesthetics, balance, presentation, and use of seasonal ingredients, but it is recognized by UNESCO as part of Japanese cultural heritage.
Before proceeding, my argument here has nothing to do with how much the meal costs, the ambience of the restaurant, nor the quality of the service that the restaurant delivers. And like a well-known and skilled musician who occasionally makes mistakes playing a song or gives a bad performance, chefs, the kitchen staff, and eating establishments can have a bad night. Hopefully it’s not the time that you show up. And just like criticizing a pizza joint that serves lousy pappardelle, it’s unfair criticizing a Japanese restaurant that specializes in sushi because their Washoku was not up to par.
What Defines Excellent Washoku?
Authenticity is the cornerstone of most types of cuisine. In the case of Washoku it means preparing it in a traditional manner, using genuine ingredients, and making minimal modifications to recipes that do not distort the integrity of the dish. Authenticity in Washoku is not just about ingredients but also about preserving a culinary heritage that dates back centuries. This involves meticulous attention to seasonal ingredients, traditional techniques, and presentation aesthetics that honor Japanese culture.
What Makes a Great Japanese Restaurant?
A great Japanese restaurant stays true to traditional recipes, uses fresh, high-quality ingredients, and employs chefs who respect the intricate techniques of Japanese cooking. Authenticity is also reflected in the careful preparation and presentation of each dish.
Although high ratings on websites like Yelp, Trip Advisor, Google Maps, and earning Michelin stars can be helpful, they are often misleading. On the other hand, certain warning signs and signals can help identify inauthentic establishments:
The term “fusion” in publicly available descriptions (i.e., reviews, advertising).
All you can eat or buffet style options as part of the way food is sold.
There is a DJ spinning music.
A disproportionate focus on sushi and sashimi.
An emphasis on selling the celebrity chef’s or restaurant’s cookbook rather than culinary excellence.
A focus on service or ambience rather than the excellence of the food and its preparation.
Ownership or chefs without proper training in Japanese cuisine.
How to Find Authentic Japanese Restaurants
Finding a restaurant that serves Washoku can be challenging. Here are some of the things I do to increase the likelihood I will find a great one:
Avoid Fusion: Although fusion cuisine has its merits, it typically strays from traditional Japanese cooking practices. For a true Washoku experience, seek out restaurants that focus on classic dishes.
Consult or join local Japanese community groups or on-line forums: These networks often share recommendations on great eating establishments.
Scan Reputable Lists: Consult current articles that might be found on CNN Travel’s top 10 Japanese restaurants, or Condé Nast Traveler as a starting point. Verify the current status and reviews of these restaurants to ensure they maintain their standards. Look for detailed rand unbiased reviews from qualified experts, and other sources.
Observe Local Patronage: Restaurants frequented by Japanese locals are often a good indicator of authenticity. This may require a few visits to gauge the clientele accurately.
Kissing a lot of frogs: Sometimes finding a great Japanese restaurant involves trying several places. This trial and error process is resource intensive. This is especially difficult if you lack the time and money to explore alternative restaurants.
Take aways
Finding a restaurant outside of Japan that prepares and serves authentic Washoku is challenging but can ultimately result in a great meal and experience. This process underscores the importance of authenticity in enjoying a particular cuisine. Achieving authenticity means ignoring hype and focusing on quality which is typically done by conducting thorough research but also keen observation and patience. This may result in a genuine appreciation for well-respected culinary traditions, thereby promoting respect for these cultural practices.
Photo Credit
Utagawa Hiroshige’s Eagle Over Jumantsubo Susaki, Fukagawa
Woodblock Print 1857.
https://jeffreyianross.com/wp-content/uploads/Screenshot-2024-07-13-at-10.25.59 PM.png1136778Jeffrey Ian Rosshttps://jeffreyianross.com/wp-content/uploads/jeffrey-ian-ross-logo-04.pngJeffrey Ian Ross2024-07-14 07:15:112024-09-15 12:09:17Searching for Washoku in all the wrong places
A Few Things I’ve Learned About Photographing Graffiti and Street Art
/by Jeffrey Ian RossI’ve spent a considerable amount of time photographing graffiti and street art. My primary purpose is to document what I see, use it for future study or reference, and then selectively post it on my Instagram account.
During this process, I’ve learned a few things that might be helpful to others engaged in this kind of activity.
Keep It Simple
I try not to overly complicate what I take photos of and how I take the pictures. One reason I use a smartphone is that it’s convenient and sufficient for my purposes. Using a digital camera could offer more control, but I find it unnecessary for what I aim to achieve. This approach means I don’t need to worry about settings like aperture, depth of field, or lighting. Other than cropping, I avoid post-processing my images (e.g. using filtering capability on social media websites, etc).
Learn from the Masters
To improve my photographs, I spend time browsing through classic graffiti and street art books. The work of Martha Cooper and Henry Chalfant, such as Subway Art, and Martha Cooper and Roger Gastman’s Spray Nation: 1980s NYC Graffiti Photographs are important in this respect. More contemporary photographers of graffiti not to be missed is Katherine Lorimer (a.k.a. Luna Park), the author of (Un)Sanctioned. I also follow a lot of instagram feeds that feature photos of graffiti and street art. I ask myself what I like about the photos and what I dislike. This helps me understand how the content can be captured and presented to the viewer. Then I then try to integrate this into my work.
Integrate Life into the Art
To remove the static feel of my photos of graffiti and street art, and to provide additional context, I often include people, animals, or means of transportation when possible, capturing the art as part of everyday life. This approach brings a dynamic element to the images and situates the graffiti and street art within its urban public space.
Revisit and Document Changes
I like to return to same surfaces where graffiti and street art has appeared, after a significant period to see what changes may have occurred. Although this isn’t always possible due to my travels, it adds a layer of historical documentation to my work.
Experiment with Angles
I take several photos of the graffiti from different angles and sometimes wait for people to walk into the frame. While I tend to photograph at eye level or the side of buildings, I also play with diagonal angles, which are frequent in my photos. This experimentation keeps my work varied and visually interesting.
Focus on Interesting Pieces
My goal is to find and photograph interesting pieces, including those that combine graffiti and street art or are placed in unusual settings. I’m rarely in search of a particular writer or artist; instead, photographing graffiti and street art is typically a spontaneous part of my urban exploration. Sometimes it is the contradictions inherent in the piece that captures my interest.
Capture the Moment
Sometimes, I stop my bike or car to take photos of a particular piece. When I have free time, I review my photos, narrow down the best images, and occasionally post them on Instagram. I also like to create videos for large walls or particularly intense images, adding another dimension to my documentation.
A lot of taking good photos of graffiti and street art can be achieved through experimentation. Thus taking multiple photos of the same item might end up producing something interesting and engaging.
Photo Credit
Photographer: Jeffrey Ian Ross, Ph.D.
title pleasure shop graffiti Turin
What are the “Hot” Research Topics and Questions in Criminology/Criminal Justice?
/by Jeffrey Ian RossPeriodically students ask me what I consider to be the “hot topics” in Criminology/Criminal Justice. Although I understand their curiosity, and attempts to be strategic, I always ask them what do they mean by “hot topics” and why they believe focusing on these will benefit them.
Most students are looking for research ideas for their master’s thesis or doctoral dissertations, hoping that by focusing on these subjects, they will open up more doors for themselves. For master’s students, a good topic can help them transition to a top PhD program. For doctoral students, it can mean securing an academic job in a great university or a position in a respectable criminal justice agency.
However, there are several reasons why chasing hot topics might be ill-advised:
Instead of solely focusing on current trends, consider the following strategies:
Enduring Questions: Choose enduring questions and problems within the field, such as gun control, youth violence, and prison overcrowding. These issues remain relevant and impactful.
Distinguish Topics and Questions: Understand the difference between broad topics (e.g., police use of force) and specific research questions (e.g., what factors lead to correctional officer deviance?).
Innovative Solutions: Think of innovative solutions to longstanding problems (e.g., new protocols, technology, etc.). This approach not only makes your research relevant but also increases your marketability to potential employers.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, research on the virus’s impact on the criminal justice system was heavily funded. In contrast, enduring questions like the causes of youth violence remain relevant regardless of trends. Ultimately, while it’s useful to be aware of trending topics, focusing on innovative solutions to longstanding issues will sustain your interest and make your research impactful and relevant in the long run.
Photo Credit
Title: Fire
Photographer: liz west
Searching for Washoku in all the wrong places
/by Jeffrey Ian RossDespite the global popularity of Japanese cuisine, finding truly authentic Washoku outside Japan remains a challenge. After eating at many Japanese restaurants, some not just mediocre but exceptionally bad, has underscored the difficulty of finding genuine Washoku. Washoku is not any type of Japanese food. This type of cuisine is a culinary art form, not only celebrated for its aesthetics, balance, presentation, and use of seasonal ingredients, but it is recognized by UNESCO as part of Japanese cultural heritage.
Before proceeding, my argument here has nothing to do with how much the meal costs, the ambience of the restaurant, nor the quality of the service that the restaurant delivers. And like a well-known and skilled musician who occasionally makes mistakes playing a song or gives a bad performance, chefs, the kitchen staff, and eating establishments can have a bad night. Hopefully it’s not the time that you show up. And just like criticizing a pizza joint that serves lousy pappardelle, it’s unfair criticizing a Japanese restaurant that specializes in sushi because their Washoku was not up to par.
What Defines Excellent Washoku?
Authenticity is the cornerstone of most types of cuisine. In the case of Washoku it means preparing it in a traditional manner, using genuine ingredients, and making minimal modifications to recipes that do not distort the integrity of the dish. Authenticity in Washoku is not just about ingredients but also about preserving a culinary heritage that dates back centuries. This involves meticulous attention to seasonal ingredients, traditional techniques, and presentation aesthetics that honor Japanese culture.
What Makes a Great Japanese Restaurant?
A great Japanese restaurant stays true to traditional recipes, uses fresh, high-quality ingredients, and employs chefs who respect the intricate techniques of Japanese cooking. Authenticity is also reflected in the careful preparation and presentation of each dish.
Red Flags to Pay attention to
Although high ratings on websites like Yelp, Trip Advisor, Google Maps, and earning Michelin stars can be helpful, they are often misleading. On the other hand, certain warning signs and signals can help identify inauthentic establishments:
How to Find Authentic Japanese Restaurants
Finding a restaurant that serves Washoku can be challenging. Here are some of the things I do to increase the likelihood I will find a great one:
Avoid Fusion: Although fusion cuisine has its merits, it typically strays from traditional Japanese cooking practices. For a true Washoku experience, seek out restaurants that focus on classic dishes.
Consult or join local Japanese community groups or on-line forums: These networks often share recommendations on great eating establishments.
Scan Reputable Lists: Consult current articles that might be found on CNN Travel’s top 10 Japanese restaurants, or Condé Nast Traveler as a starting point. Verify the current status and reviews of these restaurants to ensure they maintain their standards. Look for detailed rand unbiased reviews from qualified experts, and other sources.
Observe Local Patronage: Restaurants frequented by Japanese locals are often a good indicator of authenticity. This may require a few visits to gauge the clientele accurately.
Kissing a lot of frogs: Sometimes finding a great Japanese restaurant involves trying several places. This trial and error process is resource intensive. This is especially difficult if you lack the time and money to explore alternative restaurants.
Take aways
Finding a restaurant outside of Japan that prepares and serves authentic Washoku is challenging but can ultimately result in a great meal and experience. This process underscores the importance of authenticity in enjoying a particular cuisine. Achieving authenticity means ignoring hype and focusing on quality which is typically done by conducting thorough research but also keen observation and patience. This may result in a genuine appreciation for well-respected culinary traditions, thereby promoting respect for these cultural practices.
Photo Credit
Utagawa Hiroshige’s Eagle Over Jumantsubo Susaki, Fukagawa
Woodblock Print 1857.