Capturing Vigilia_01
AUG 2024
The Totem and the Mountain
Photographing Vigilia 1, Adrián Sagredo’s towering wooden totem, became an adventure we won’t soon forget. Crafted from pine wood, this sculpture embodies both strength and introspection. To truly capture its essence, we knew that an ordinary studio would not suffice. Instead, we set our sights on La Pedriza, Madrid—a rugged natural landscape known for its imposing granite formations and challenging terrain. The untamed wilderness was the perfect backdrop to highlight the sculpture's raw beauty, but transporting and photographing a large wooden piece in this environment proved to be no small feat.
Equipped with a Sony A7III paired with a Sony 12-24mm 2.8 GM lens and an Olympus Mju I, we were prepared to face any photographic challenge the mountains threw our way. From the outset, however, navigating the steep paths with delicate camera gear, while ensuring the totem’s integrity, required precise coordination. Every step was carefully calculated to ensure that both man and sculpture arrived safely at our chosen location, a spot where the natural lighting and rock formations would accentuate Vigilia 1's textured surfaces and its symbolic representation of masculinity and meditation in art.
Once we reached the perfect vantage point, the real challenge began. The terrain was uneven, making it difficult to stabilize the equipment for the shots. But the tension between control and chaos—the human-made totem standing tall against the wild landscape—added layers of meaning to the shoot. The Sony 12-24mm lens allowed us to capture wide, sweeping shots that emphasized the grandeur of both the sculpture and its natural surroundings. Meanwhile, the Olympus Mju I brought a vintage feel to some images, offering an intimate perspective on the totem's intricate carvings.
Throughout the day, the weather shifted unpredictably, adding another layer of difficulty. Despite the physical challenges, this experience was a perfect reflection of the balance that Vigilia 1 itself seeks to convey—between strength and fragility, masculinity and contemplation. Each photograph became a testament to the dialogue between the artist’s creation and the natural world that surrounded it. The final shots not only capture the sculpture but also the journey behind it—one filled with dedication, creativity, and a deep connection to the environment.
