Every photographer relies on glass, but optics also belong to scientists, travellers, theatre audiences and the simply curious.
Robert Harper's optics collection contains 39 unique photographs across 98 frames. Magnifying glasses, binoculars and lenses make up a concise study of instruments designed to alter distance, scale and attention.
Glass observing glass
Optical objects are delightfully self-referential photographic subjects. They bend the scene used to photograph them. Curved lenses distort reflections, reveal the studio and transform nearby objects.
Harper's technical command, sharpened at the Condé Nast studios and across decades of still-life work, allowed him to make that complexity legible. The resulting photographs connect scientific function with elegant product design.
Binoculars imply landscape, racing, theatre or travel. A magnifying glass brings intimacy and scrutiny. Lenses connect the collection directly to Harper's own cameras and professional craft.