I know I am not the only person that enjoys taking things apart. I am equally fascinated by exploded views that I come across in manuals and old books. I picked up book titled “Graphic Graflex Photography” My edition of the book is from 1947, so it has an interesting cross section of common photo techniques. There are essays and tutorials from some big names in the book, like Bernice Abbott, and Ansel Adams. It covers a lot of material, from darkroom technique, to micro-photography. One chapter stood out.
According to the book, we can thank WWII for exploded views becoming such a prevalent visual representation. They are an incredibly effective way to show anyone, from layperson to expert how a complicated item is assembled. They are a product of rapid mechanization.
I had never really considered how exploded views are assembled. The object has to disassembled and mocked up into a logical system. Each piece of the object must be supported, and staged so that each piece lines up with its respective mate.
I have not fully fleshed out how to use the technique conceptually, but I have started to think about it again with fall starting and winter on its way. I will be relegated to staying inside and editing and doing the business end of photography instead of shooting outside like I like to do. I think it’s time to hunt down some more things to explode.