Untitled (portrait of a bride and her bridesmaids) c. 1945

Editor: Here we have an untitled photograph by Martin Schweig, showing a bride and her bridesmaids. It's a black and white image, giving it a classic feel. What compositional elements stand out to you? Curator: The arrangement of the figures creates a strong central focus on the bride, flanked symmetrically by the bridesmaids. The use of light and shadow across the fabric of their gowns is quite effective in defining form and texture. Note also the verticality established by the candles and the figures themselves; this is cleverly contrasted with the curvilinear forms of the floral arrangements. Editor: That's fascinating, I hadn't considered the contrast between vertical and curvilinear forms. Thanks for pointing that out! Curator: Indeed. A close consideration of the formal elements reveals a sophisticated understanding of visual language.