Coplans's photos represent ageing, and all of them show no identities. They are all depersonalised in order to present them as being anyone. Since John Coplans lived in the USA for most of his life (although born in the UK), the photos can appear as a statement to the older generation. Typically, America is known for it 'beauties' and 'youth'. The older age group is "imperfect" and so these photos can also be remarked as a rebellious act on John's part. All his photos are self-portraits. The black and white could also indicate ageing. The way that the top photo's subject is posed creates an almost smooth looking appearance, thus it looks rather odd - perhaps even surreal. Normally a body would not appear that smooth. This could also be caused by the back not being entirely in focus. The fists are more sharply defined compared to the soft appearance of the back. The fists at the top are unexpected and small. How small the fists appear could imply that the elderly are "weak", but they are clenched to contradict that. They may be "weak" physically due to age, but they are "strong" due to knowledge and experience. The angle is straight. Whilst the back covers most of the rule of thirds, the fists are at the top, making the photo more interesting.
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