Testing

Preparation for final

I appreciate their a lot for their help after knowing my sensitive topic, thanks for Erica and Ms.Niu’s on-camera

not all (I picked some satisfied ones)

without editing

Student (Erica):

Adult (Ms.Niu):

Experiment with costumes/poses/backgrounds – show ideas with sketches

•Experiment with framing – show with sketches

The process of framing the shot involved experimenting with unconventional angles and deliberately avoiding capturing the ground to maintain an un-studio-like appearance. This artistic approach presented its challenges, as achieving the desired effect was far from easy. It required careful consideration and experimentation to find the perfect balance between uniqueness and authenticity. The aim was to create a visually compelling composition that stood out from traditional studio settings. Despite the difficulties encountered, the result was a shot that conveyed an intriguing and unconventional perspective, capturing the essence of the subject matter in a distinct and captivating manner.

•Experiment with aperture. Shutter speed and framing

Shutter speed– normal with flash lights (lights too dim)

Framing- I chose to film some close-ups and tried different angles with my models lying down and sitting to express their weaknesses and what the tram has caused them. locking themselves up and negative thoughts of self-harm while they lie down. Imagine if they leave the world, would they forget the moment? I also filmed some bird’ s-eye views to better capture my model’s pose.

•Experiment with Photoshop techniques including but not restricted to B&W conversion, levels, cropping, and sharpening.

Instead of B&W, I used intense colors like red and black to attract the audience. I also decided to use some soft white roses in contrast with the strong colors and the atmosphere; choosing white roses also evokes my theme, symbolizing the trauma and the victims’ purity. which is ionic because red roses have a stereotype of love, romance, and passion, but red could also represent violence, which is what I picked for my background color.

Plan My Shoot

• Do you need any props?

Yes, to create a contrast, I used red and dark lighting on both the model and the background. This choice aims to evoke a sense of pain, trauma, and emotional turmoil that survivors of rape may endure. By juxtaposing the darkness and red lighting with the white roses, I wanted to emphasize the stark contrast between the harm inflicted and the inherent purity and worth of the individuals affected.

The decision to use white roses instead of red ones was very significant. While red roses often symbolize love and passion, I felt that using them in this context might introduce overly intense or romanticized connotations. By opting for white roses, I aimed to create a visual tension that conveys the gravity of the issue while allowing for a more nuanced exploration of the victims’ purity and the post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) they face, including self-doubt from society.

In order to enhance the visual impact and highlight the symbolism of the white roses, I incorporated flashlights to illuminate them. This technique created a spotlight effect, drawing attention to the importance of shedding light on the issue of rape. The light illuminating the white roses symbolizes hope, healing, and the significance of raising awareness and understanding surrounding this social problem.

Throughout the process of developing this photography series, I strive to approach the subject matter with sensitivity and respect. I aim to create images that evoke emotions, provoke thoughtful reflection, and contribute to meaningful conversations.

By utilizing visual metaphors, such as the white roses, and carefully considering the lighting and composition, I hope to create an opportunity for viewers to engage in a deeper exploration of the social issue of rape. My goal is to foster empathy, understanding, and a call to action through a cohesive and impactful visual narrative.

• Is your vision clear? Can you develop the story further?

When examining the composition, framing, lighting, and other visual elements used in my photographs, I can see how they contribute to the overall message and mood I intended to convey. I carefully considered these elements to enhance the storytelling and raise awareness about the experiences of females.

In terms of composition and framing, I employed various techniques to create visually impactful images. I used close-ups and tight framing to focus the viewer’s attention on the subject’s emotions and expressions, capturing their vulnerability and strength. The use of negative space in some shots allowed for a sense of isolation and contemplation, emphasizing the individual’s journey.

Regarding lighting, I opted for a combination of red and dark lighting to evoke a powerful mood of pain, trauma, and emotional turmoil. This lighting choice enhances the narrative by visually representing the struggles faced by survivors of rape. The contrast between the darkness and the illuminated white roses further emphasizes the theme of hope and resilience and the importance of shedding light on the issue.

Symbolism and metaphors play a significant role in my photographs. The white roses symbolize purity, innocence, and the inherent worth of individuals affected by rape. By juxtaposing the white roses with the red and dark lighting, I aim to highlight the stark contrast between the harm inflicted and the inner strength and dignity of survivors. The use of flashlights to illuminate the roses acts as a metaphor for shedding light on the issue, symbolizing hope, healing, and raising awareness.

Considering the subject matter of rape, the narrative in my photographs aims to address the issue as a social problem. Through the portrayal of emotions, body language, and visual cues, I strive to evoke empathy, provoke thought, and encourage discussions about supporting survivors and promoting change. The images tell stories of resilience, reclaiming personal power, and the journey towards healing.

In terms of context and intended audience, I hope to reach a diverse audience that includes both those familiar with the issue of rape and those who may be less informed. I aim to provoke an emotional response and stimulate reflections on the experiences of survivors. By presenting the photographs in a sensitive and respectful manner, I seek to generate meaningful dialogue and increase awareness surrounding the issue.

Ethical considerations are of utmost importance in addressing such a sensitive topic. I have taken care to respect the privacy and dignity of the individuals involved, ensuring their consent and confidentiality. I have approached the subject matter with empathy, aiming to create a safe space for expression and to avoid any sensationalism or exploitation. My intention is to foster understanding, empathy, and positive change through my work.

• What locations/backgrounds/props/costumes could enhance your story?

location: As a photographer, I chose to film at a studio for my photography project on the sensitive topic of rape. The studio environment provides me with the lighting control I need to achieve the desired visual effects in my photographs. This control allows me to create a specific mood and atmosphere that effectively conveys the emotions associated with the subject matter. Additionally, the privacy of the studio setting is crucial when addressing such a delicate topic. It ensures that my model feels comfortable and safe during the filming process. By providing a private space, I can create an environment where my model can express herself without feeling exposed or vulnerable. Respecting their emotional well-being is paramount in handling such a sensitive subject.

backgrounds: we laid a black velvet carpet (Unwanted curtains from the studio) so we can do many poses like laying down and it gives me a texture with the flashing light of the camera which I love, for the background I chose a black color to match with the carpet and so the ground it’s fully covered. which drags the audience into the hopeless atmosphere.

props: The choice to utilize white roses rather than red ones was crucial. Although red roses are frequently linked with love and passion, I thought that utilizing them in this situation might lead to unduly dramatic or idealized interpretations. I chose to use white roses because I wanted to create a visual tension that would both emphasize the seriousness of the situation and provide the opportunity to conduct a deeper investigation of the victims’ PTSD and feelings of purity, as well as self-doubt from society.

costumes: I dressed my model in a flowing white dress and matching sports shoes to emphasize their young age and innocence. The white dress symbolizes purity and vulnerability, while the sports shoes suggest youth and activity, creating a poignant visual vibe that contrasts with the extreme lighting of the photographs.

• Sketch out your shoot before you begin.

• Many people may think victims will slowly forget, and the truth of their getting hurt will slowly fade as they grow. BUT THE THINGS THAT HAVE HAPPENED WILL NEVER DISAPPEAR. facing many voices may also lead to negative thoughts of self-harm and even ending their lives.

The title of this project is…

SILENCE…

The societal/cultural issue I want to explore with my photographs is…..

The difficulties of female consent(rape). The difficulties surrounding female consent in cases of rape stem from power dynamics, coercion, societal norms, communication barriers, and trauma responses. Power imbalances and manipulative tactics used by perpetrators can make it challenging for victims to assert boundaries. Societal norms and gender roles can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and place the burden on women to resist advances. Communication barriers and misunderstandings can arise, and trauma responses can impact a survivor’s ability to recognize non-consensual acts. Addressing these challenges is crucial to promoting a culture of consent, empowering survivors, and educating society about the importance of enthusiastic, ongoing consent.

I want my audience to feel…..

Through my work on the theme of sexual violence, I aim to evoke empathy, raise awareness, provoke discomfort, inspire reflection, and instill hope in your audience. By capturing the stories and experiences of survivors, you seek to foster a deeper understanding of the emotional journey and resilience of those affected by sexual violence. You want to challenge societal norms, spark conversations, and encourage viewers to question their beliefs and behaviors. While addressing a difficult subject, you also aim to inspire hope and convey the possibility of healing and positive change.

I will get inspiration and develop my ideas by looking for photographs that…

To develop my ideas and find inspiration for my photography project on sexual violence, I will look for photographs that evoke strong emotions, tell compelling stories, showcase resilience, challenge perceptions, create visual impact, and promote dialogue and change. By exploring images that possess these qualities, I aim to gather inspiration, expand my creative vision, and develop ideas that contribute to a meaningful exploration of the subject matter in my work.

Create a mood board highlighting the societal/cultural issue I want to explore with my photographs.

Once you have a concept you can create a mood board. This is like the “mind map” but much more focused. Include images from task 3 as well as other ideas. Images don’t have to be portraits – anything that inspires. You could even include textures and colors if they inspire (for example: the color of your flag, if that is important to you.)

Find some photographers/photographs or look at photography genres that inspire – not too much detail, but a general idea. You need to show that your research has purposefully informed and inspired your project.

Describe the societal/cultural issue or identity concept you want to explore with your photographs

Photographer:

• Laia Abril

• Rosemary Morton

There are 2 photographers that I think have good ideas and show what they want to present cryptic expressions.

The theme of rape, as explored by photographers Laia Abril and Rosemary Morton, is a susceptible and highly impactful subject matter that focuses on shedding light on the experiences and consequences of sexual violence.

Laia Abril, a renowned photographer and visual artist, is known for her thought-provoking projects that tackle social issues. In her work related to rape, Abril aims to raise awareness about the prevalence and complexity of sexual violence. She delves into the multifaceted aspects of rape, including its psychological, social, and legal dimensions.

Abril’s photography often involves a combination of images, texts, and archival material. She employs a meticulous research-based approach to create narrative-driven projects that convey the stories of survivors, challenge societal norms, and confront the systemic issues surrounding sexual assault. Through her work, Abril seeks to give a voice to survivors, confront the stigma associated with rape, and advocate for justice and social change.

Rosemary Morton, another photographer exploring the theme of rape, brings her unique perspective and artistic vision to the subject matter. While I couldn’t find specific information about Rosemary Morton’s work on this topic, it’s important to note that artists approach their subjects with distinct styles and creative visions.

When photographers such as Laia Abril and Rosemary Morton engage with the theme of rape, they contribute to the broader discourse on sexual violence. Their work often challenges the viewer to confront uncomfortable truths, empathize with survivors, and encourage conversations that can lead to societal transformation and support for survivors of rape.

1. What are some of your favorite movies, genres, books, etc. Can you style a shoot around that concept? ( see Cindy Sherman)

I really like the connotation and the feeling of chills on my back after watching it. like Lee Joon‑it’s Hope and many horror movies vibe.

2. Is there a location or photograph that inspires you? What story can you design around those inspirational things?

素媛(Hope), a Korean film about a young girl who is harmed and a criminal who escapes justice, served as my inspiration. Women often experience unfair treatment in society; we are constantly told how to dress and not to be overly attractive, while men are never taught these mannerisms or how to treat minorities with respect.

3. Is there a story or emotion from your life you want to communicate to the world?

Being a female it really touches me when I watch these types of films, and see the news about abusing females and hurting girls. I don’t know why boys think girls are less strong than them is a priority for them to hurt people. there is actually a very big strength difference between the two genders and I think males are built strong because they need to protect their weakness and be caring instead of using this ability to harm.

4. What social/cultural issues are important to you? Why?

I chose this sensitive social issue because one in three women (approximately 736 million people) will experience physical or sexual violence by an intimate partner or sexual assault by a non-partner in her lifetime. However, 6% of women globally report being raped by someone other than their husband or partner. sexual assault and most of them are immaturity. i want to raise awareness and show the fact that this is wrong.

•What makes a particular photograph a portrait?

When a picture captures the core, likeness, and character of a particular individual or group of people, it is classified as a portrait. Intentional composition, focus on the subject, facial expressions and emotions, connection, and engagement between the subject and photographer, lighting and atmosphere, storytelling or contextual factors, and the portrayal of personality and identity are all important components of a portrait. But it’s crucial to keep in mind that the definition of a picture might change depending on circumstance, cultural standards, and creative interpretation.

•Are Selfies Portraits?

yes, selfies could be considered portraits but more precisely they could be defined as self-portraits self-portrait since they are self-created representations of oneself. Selfies are pictures of people taken of themselves, usually with their faces in the center, most frequently with cellphones or other devices. They enable people to communicate their individuality, express their sense of self, and share their experiences with others. In the era of social media and digital photography, selfies have grown in popularity as a means of self-expression.

•What should or shouldn’t be included within a portrait?

a portrait should typically include the subject’s face, expressions, and emotions as the main focus. Context, storytelling elements, composition, and appropriate lighting can enhance the portrait. Capturing the subject’s individuality and identity is important. It’s best to avoid distracting elements, unflattering or inappropriate representations, and excessive editing. However, the specific elements included or excluded in a portrait depend on artistic vision, the purpose of the portrait, and personal preference.

•What makes a “good portrait?”

a “good portrait” is subjective and can vary based on individual preferences. However, some common qualities associated with successful portraits include a genuine connection and emotional impact, authenticity, strong composition and visual appeal, technical excellence, a unique perspective or narrative, intentional use of space and background, the ability to evoke empathy or connection, and a timeless and relevant quality. Ultimately, what makes a portrait “good” depends on personal taste and the context in which it is viewed.

•Can a portrait consist of a small detail only, such as a close-up of a hand?

Yes,  close-up of a hand, and still be considered a portrait. While portraits typically focus on the subject’s face and overall appearance, capturing a specific detail like a hand can convey a lot of meaning and contribute to the overall portrayal of the subject. The hand can symbolize various things, such as age, occupation, emotions, or a particular gesture that holds significance. It can also be used to tell a story or evoke a specific mood. So, even though it deviates from the traditional full-face portrait, a close-up of a hand can still be a powerful and meaningful representation of the subject.

•When does a more abstract representation cease to become a portrait – for example a blurred figure, or a photograph of a person that has been torn, ripped, or faded?

The points at which a representation becomes too abstract to be considered a portrait can vary and are subjective. Blurred figures or intentionally distorted images can still be considered portraits if the connection to the subject is recognizable. However, when a photograph is torn, ripped, or faded to the point of significant obscurity, it may be seen more as an artistic or conceptual representation rather than a traditional portrait. The categorization depends on viewer interpretation, the artist’s intent, and the context in which the image is presented. The boundaries between portraiture and abstract representation are fluid, allowing for diverse creative expressions and subjective judgments.

•Is it possible to represent a person photographically without them being present in the image – for example, through a Still-life, an arrangement of inanimate objects? And if so, can this continue to be called a portrait?

When a photograph is torn, ripped, or faded to the point of significant obscurity, it may be seen more as an artistic or conceptual representation rather than a traditional portrait. The categorization depends on viewer interpretation, the artist’s intent, and the context in which the image is presented. The boundaries between portraiture and abstract representation are fluid, allowing for diverse creative expressions and subjective judgments.

•Does a portrait have to be a single photograph? How about a sequence of images?

a portrait does not have to be confined to a single photograph. It can include a sequence or series of images that tell a story, capture different aspects of the subject, or provide a more comprehensive representation. Multiple images within a sequence can deepen our understanding of the subject and offer different perspectives or moments. Contemporary photography often explores the use of sequences or series to create nuanced and multifaceted portraits. Therefore, a portrait can extend beyond a single frame and encompass a collection of photographs.

Selecting items: I Choose things that have vivid colors inherently or that can be made more so. Bright flowers, colorful environments, and city scenes with eye-catching signs.

Lighting: Bright colors are accentuated by the right lighting. Colors can be enhanced by bright, natural sunlight, especially in the warm, soft lights which is the hour just after sunrise or before sunset. To bring out the colors in my photos, play around with different lighting setups, flashlights, and camera angles.

Composition: I keep track of how the colors are positioned and arranged inside the frame. The opposite colors on the color wheel that complement one another can provide powerful contrasts and enhance the colors. The colors can also stand out by isolating a topic against a contrasting background or by employing color-blocking techniques.

Post-Processing: I heighten and improvements of colors even more with post-processing software. The image’s vibrancy can be enhanced by adjusting contrast, vibrance, and saturation. It’s crucial to use restraint and abstain from over-processing, too, as this might produce colors that seem artificial or unnatural.

If you look closely at these photographs, you can see that they all have a “pinkish” color, which I think contrasts with the feel and stereotype of the spray paint. My major focus in creating this set was on the paint design and colors. Spray paint has a reputation for being unclean, disorderly, and messy. However, I enjoy the sense of freedom it provides me very much. Spray paints can make streets feel easy and stressful, there are also no right or wrong answers when it comes to them.