In the captivating realm of fluid photography, Milwaukee-based photographer Jack Long has established himself as a true innovator. His work captures the ethereal motion of liquids, manipulating water, ink, and other substances to form breathtaking shapes that seem to defy the laws of nature. Long’s artistry is a striking blend of science and creativity, utilizing high-speed photography techniques to freeze the fleeting and dynamic beauty of liquid forms. Each image tells a story of movement and transformation, with the vibrant splashes and intricate swirls creating an enchanting visual experience that sparks wonder and curiosity.
What sets Jack Long’s work apart lies in his refusal to settle for repetition. In a field where photographers might be tempted to recreate successful methods, Long deliberately steers clear of such redundancy. He continuously seeks out new approaches, driven by an insatiable desire to discover the unknown through his lens. This relentless pursuit of originality and innovation infuses his liquid photography with an almost magical quality, as every photo is born from a unique moment never to be repeated. By capturing liquids in suspended motion, Long provides a glimpse into a world that remains invisible to the naked eye, delivering an experience that is as captivating as it is imaginative.
Jack Long’s photography is not only a testament to his technical skill but also to his dedication to pushing the boundaries of the art form. The photographs he creates are evocative and otherworldly, drawing us into a dance of colors and shapes where gravity seems optional. His work invites audiences to pause and appreciate the transient beauty that surrounds us, highlighting the profound elegance within what might otherwise be considered chaos. Long’s images do more than merely depict liquids; they evoke emotions and provoke thought, offering a fresh perspective on the ordinary turned extraordinary through the lens of high-speed photography.
My work is high-speed fluid formation photography. I work to get fluids suspended in air for very brief moments and capture their incredible shapes with very short exposure times. Electronic flash is generally used to stop the action, but I have done some outdoor works as well. All of my work is unique and unlike anything previously created. I have no interest in recreating what has already been done. While I may borrow from other genres for inspiration, I will not try to replicate. I don’t even like doing my own ideas more than once. I have a few selected techniques that I use that are self discovered. I am working to get the most out of these methods. The new and sometimes surprising results are what keep me going.
Jack Long
More info: Behance, Carbonmade, Instagram, Vimeo (h/t: Inspiration Grid).