The word 'Sanctuary' can mean different things; to me it conveys safety. I have explored the concept of vulnerability and the quest for the sense of safety in our own skins. In this shoot I aim to convey this by using the human form as a vehicle for my ideas. As preparation for this shoot I researched and studied the work of Bill Brandt, who is most well known for his photography within the portraiture and nude genre. I found his work moving and inspiring; and as such this portfolio has been influenced by him.
This shoot comprises of two sections:
The studio based shoot experiments with texture and light but still attempts to convey introspection and loneliness. Angst and anxiety are suggested with the model grabbing at herself, her fingers digging at her flesh, her arms wrapped around her torso in protection against the world. The portraits build on this theme, lit to create a brooding atmosphere that explodes into anger in self portraiture.
Nude #1
And there she was
Preserve
Thoughts #1
My local beach provides me with immense inspiration largely due to its raw wildness and elemental force. It was important for me to convey this essential stimulus. Following an Atlantic storm, I shot some photographs on the beach and tried to convey the notion of a person searching, possibly out to sea and perhaps reflecting on life with the introspective mood enhanced by the wind and the cold. A direct juxtaposition to this loneliness is the shot of three friends warmly sharing a joke that remains their secret.
Mystery
Depth
Thoughts #2
Hurley burley
Thoughts #3
The inside joke
Pensive weather
The outdoor shoot fulfils much of its aim, although some shots may appear affected. For instance the model adjusts her hair elaborately; however the wistful mood is still conveyed. The studio shoot photographs may have benefitted by further cropping, to help focus the viewer’s interest, however I feel the brief has been met and the themes of loneliness, angst, frustration and vulnerability are successfully portrayed.
