Don McCullin CBE pays a visit to Opal
Overseeing the first print tests . . . 5.7.2014
A candid portrait of Don.
Don's powerful and unflinching war photography has world acclaim. To help him record his incredible life story, along with some new, unseen and unpublished works is indeed, an honour!
Great thanks to Katherine Wood of The English Group for the following images.
The first 'pull'.
We are testing three papers: Arctic Matt, Silk and Volume and by far, the Volume is favourite. Great lift, great detail holding and nice tactility.
Deep in thought . . .
Don discussing black density with Keith and Chris. One of the most important factors of the project is to maintain the life and mood of the image. Maximum contrast, rich blacks and finest detail are what Don's work is all about.
Don and Chris looking at the colour tones and richness. Great detail is achieved in one of Don's favourite photographs.
We'll be printing the work in duotone mostly. A tricky thing to get right but not at all daunting for the Opal team. It's the kinda thing we love!
In collaboration with Marc Carter, The English Group, we are all really excited to have Don's positive response so far.
Dave 'Bart' Simpson, Opal scanning, colour & pre-press guru discussing scans with Don. Around 400+ A2 prints will need drum scanning and adjusting to acheive the right result. Big black and white contrast is needed, whilst maintaining midtone warmth. Dave is the man for this job!
Ally, Opal production manager sharing an anecdote with Mr McCullin. After such an incredible journey, Don has many many fascinating stories to tell.
Don was born in 1935 and grew up in Finsbury Park, North London. He signed up for National Service in the RAF serving as a photography assistant, processing film from the bombers after their reconnaissance. He spent £30.00 on his first camera, a Rolleicord, but needed to pawn this when he returned to civvy life. His mother 'rescued' the camera back . . . his very first published photograph (Observer 1958) was of the local gang, The Guvnors. . .
. . . in Don's words: "That one picture changed my life"
Don has had an amazing, captivating life and we are so, so pleased to help put his story on paper.
Please click here to watch Don McCullin - 'in his own words'. A fascinating and compelling narrative - truly a great watch.
Don is back later this week . . .
Thanks for reading - please keep in touch for updates.
Hope all is well where you are!