The project ‘External Iran’ by Amir Azari is part of a larger, long-term initiative that aims to present Iran from a new and unique perspective.
Amir Azari: „In this initial phase, my team and I traveled over 9,000 kilometers, capturing images of 600 individuals across various locations in Iran. Our goal was to portray the culture, nature, and beauty of the country in a novel format that had rarely been seen before. During this journey, we produced approximately 1,000 unique photographs, each telling a story of life, nature, or culture in Iran. This is only the first phase of the project, with more phases planned for the future. The project combined artistic and technical elements, utilizing advanced equipment to create images that transcend the bounds of traditional photography, narrating deep and compelling stories.
The “External Iran” project was one of the most challenging professional endeavors of my career due to its creative scope and technical complexities. Given the extreme temperatures, harsh geographical conditions, and unpredictable scenarios, meticulous planning and the use of professional grade equipment were crucial for success.
One of the most critical decisions was selecting the right lighting and flash system. Drawing on my extensive experience with various flash systems across different categories, I chose to work with broncolor. Renowned for its precision in lighting, stable output, and advanced features, it proved to be the ideal choice for this project.
A standout feature of the Siros 800 L system was its exceptional battery performance. With an additional battery, we were able to shoot continuously for several hours, even in temperatures exceeding 40°C. This allowed us to work uninterrupted, focusing entirely on the creative process without concerns about recharging.
Given that we were constantly switching modes of transportation - cars, boats, and even airplanes - the portable cases for the equipment were incredibly practical and effective. This portability enabled us to set up quickly and continue working without delays.
This project marked my first experience using the Para system. While I had only researched it before, seeing the results of the first few shots made me think, “Wow, what a great risk to take!” Although investing in Para required a larger budget, the results were undeniably worth it. I’ve always believed that creativity and the right equipment are two essential pillars of creating impactful works.
The Para 133, with its broader light spread compared to the Para 88, allowed us to achieve unparalleled detail and lighting. Moving the Para 133 in some locations posed significant challenges, but the final results made every effort worthwhile.
In addition to the Para system, I occasionally used the P65 reflector with its grid, a 90x120cm softbox, and a 110 umbrella. Modifier selection varied depending on the workspace, but in 90% of cases, the main light (Key Light) was provided by the Para 133.
Another highly beneficial feature was the broncolor remote system (RFS 2), which enabled flawless flash synchronization over long distances. This was especially useful in outdoor environments and challenging conditions, significantly streamlining our workflow.
Ultimately, the combination of creativity and the right equipment were the primary factors behind the success of the “External Iran” project. The broncolor system, particularly the Siros 800 L and Para 133, provided the precision and quality needed to produce images that not only reflected our artistic vision but also captured the desired details and finesse.”
