Identity Unit Present
Sketch of my shots:
Contact Sheet:
Best Images:
Documenting the Process in Detail
1. Pre-shoot Planning
This project was initiated with a vision of depicting the emotional complexity of adolescence into adulthood, a critical intersection of identity formation, responsibility, and a period of great psychological stress. My goal was to translate these concepts into a visual narrative and to show the duality of the complex emotions and anxieties associated with this stage of life.
Inspired by the narrative and emotional depth found in Steve McCurry’s work, I chose to focus on intimate portraits characterized by the use of proposed color, light, and texture. I conceived each image as a representation of a unique aspect of this journey: the excitement associated with newfound independence, the burden of expectations, and the internal struggles that exist in self-discovery.
In terms of lighting, I opted for soft and diffused tones, which would evoke feelings of intimacy and reflection— like how McCurry used natural light to emphasize human vulnerability. The blue and the warm amber tones I chose would represent two parts of this transition: blue standing in for the moments of isolation and doubt; amber, hope and resilience.
The challenge at this phase was to come up with gestures and compositions that communicated these emotions without, of course, appearing over-staged. I prepared by studying McCurry‘s methods, paying close attention to his use of central framing, leading lines, and juxtaposition of context to draw out a deeper story.
2. Shooting Stage
The photography session was a dynamic process characterized by the intersection of meticulous planning and spontaneity. I collaborated closely with my friend, fostering a safe environment that encouraged him to articulate emotions associated with the transitional challenges of emerging adulthood.
In the first chosen shot, my friend placed his hands behind his head and gazed directly at the camera. This gesture conveyed a mix of openness and vulnerability, inviting the viewer into the subject’s internal world. The soft amber light illuminated one side of the face, symbolizing hope amidst the chaos, while shadows on the other side represented lingering uncertainty.
The second shot emerged from a more spontaneous moment. My friend raised his arm to shield his face, symbolizing withdrawal or a need for self-protection. This was one of the most successful moments in the shoot, as it felt authentic and deeply tied to the theme of mental health. The blue lighting amplified the sense of isolation, while the contrast between light and shadow highlighted the complexity of this moment.
The third image, where I clasped my hands near their face, represented the tension between struggle and resilience. This pose was more deliberate, designed to embody the weight of internal battles while maintaining a sense of dignity during the transitional period. The purple light introduced a surreal element, suggesting the layered and often non-linear nature of mental health journeys.
One of the most successfully shot parts involved capturing real, unfiltered feelings. I managed to get real feelings into the images by encouraging my friend to reflect on his situation in this transitional time. However, it was quite a task to find the right balance of light to portray the tones that were being displayed. Some of the shots came out either too dark or even oversaturated, so the placement and intensity of the light source had to be readjusted.
3. Post-Shooting Editing
Editing allowed me to revisit both the mood and the coherence of this series. Inspired by McCurry‘s mastery in using color as an emotional anchor, I have played with the interaction of amber and blue hues to enhance the emotional value of each image: deepening the shadows in the second, so the sense of isolation is more pronounced, and in the third, bringing up the highlights to emphasize the subject‘s expression of resilience.
Texture also played a crucial role in the post-production process. Drawing from McCurry’s emphasis on detail, I meticulously highlighted the texture of the subjects‘ clothing and skin in order to elicit a tangible sense of reality, thus anchoring the images in the everyday struggles faced by young adults.
Applying Steve McCurry‘s Knowledge to My Work
Steve McCurry‘s work in using color, light, and proximity composition to evoke deep emotional responses was a huge influence on this. I used his style with:
Color as Emotion: Similarly, in the way McCurry used complementary colors to create emotional depth, such as the play of the colors red and green in Afghan Girl, I explored the duality of fear and hope with blue and amber tones in my images. This interplay easily put across the tension between the coldness of isolation from self-doubt and the warmth associated with resilience.
Intimate Portraiture: McCurry‘s portraits often give the viewer direct, unflinching gazes that demand empathy. I did it in the first image, where the gaze of the my friend invites the audience to participate in the raw vulnerability typical of young adulthood.
Composition and Focus: The main framing technique that McCurry used really influenced me to completely isolate the subjects in each frame by removing any sort of distraction and hence focusing solely upon expressions and gestures. This showed the intensity of their emotional journeys. I also followed the philosophy of patience and observation by McCurry: allowing the subjects to act naturally and express themselves naturally. This happened to capture very real moments defining the emotional import of passing into adulthood.
Evaluation of Success Based on My Vision
The final images were really speaking to my vision of exploring the mental health issues that surround adolescence and emerging adulthood.
Emotional Depth: Each picture captured the complexity of this change, with all its moments of doubt and isolation intertwined with those of victory and resilience. The gestures of the subjects themselves, along with the deliberate use of light and color, depicted this emotional duality—something quite intrinsic to this stage in life.
Narrative Coherence: The series brought a coherent storyline regarding the obstacles and successes that young adults experience, which goes with my intention to instill empathy and understanding for this sensitive yet changing period. Link to
Mental Health: By highlighting the psychological pressures involved in this change, it acted to the self as a mental health thought-provoking reminder of the importance of support networks and transparent communication. The blue and amber colors visually represented the need to balance despair with hope and development.
The project allowed me to bring my artistic vision into a real narrative and connect with both my subjects and audience on a deeper level. Inspired by McCurry, I produced images telling not only a story but eliciting feelings of empathy and introspection—two very important elements in dealing with mental health issues arising from emerging adulthood.
Identity Unit Vision & Statement of Intent
The transition from adolescence to adulthood is a very serious and often dramatic time in the life of a young person, full of changes that can create high levels of stress. My aim in presenting this transition is to explain the many-sided problems that adolescents have to face while passing through the confusions inherent in emerging adulthood. This is not just a passing period of time; it is, for many, a significant point where identity formation, independence, and responsibility all come together and often bring with them great emotional upset and psychological pressure. As the teenage years turn into young adulthood, a host of stressors come into play: academic pressures, social dynamics, and expectations about the future. The excitement of new freedoms is soon overcome by fear of making life-changing decisions regarding further education, career choices, and relationships. This duality of excitement and fear creates a unique terrain of stress that can have deep effects on mental health.
Estimates from a 2021 research indicate that up to 48% of young people in this transitional phase experience severe mental health conditions, which are further complicated by the sudden changes in their support systems as they move away from services oriented toward children. Moreover, the search for identity during this stage might lead to conflicts within and a feeling of isolation. In their quest to find their identity in a rapidly changing world, adolescents may experience confusion about their values, passions, and where they belong. This period of exploration is an integral part of development; still, it can also be filled with much uncertainty, which might lead to higher levels of stress. The compulsion to conform to the expectations of society, on top of the need to create one’s identity, may cause great anxiety and self-doubt. In my art, I try to encapsulate the essence of this change by using visual narratives of the challenges and victories that young adults go through. By focusing on real moments, those that reveal true emotions—whether it be the exhilaration of gaining independence or the burden of immense responsibility—I seek to create empathy and understanding with the audience. Each picture will stand as a testimony to the resilience required to negotiate this difficult period, while at the same time emphasizing the importance of support systems, mental health resources, and open communication during these formative years.
Regions that reported mental health problems in 2023:
Citations:
“48% of Young Adults Struggled with Mental Health in Mid-2021.” 48% of Young Adults Struggled with Mental Health in Mid-2021 | UC San Francisco, 10 Dec. 2024, www.ucsf.edu/news/2022/04/422611/48-young-adults-struggled-mental-health-mid-2021.
The Mental State of the World Report 2022, 4 Mar. 2024, mentalstateoftheworld.report/2023_read/.
“Mental Health of Adolescents.” World Health Organization, World Health Organization, www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/adolescent-mental-health. Accessed 13 Dec. 2024.
“Mental Health for Adolescents.” HHS Office of Population Affairs, opa.hhs.gov/adolescent-health/mental-health-adolescents. Accessed 13 Dec. 2024.
Identity Unit Artist Analysis
Artist: Steve McCurry
Gallery of Work
Unique Color Sheme
McCurry’s reputation as one of the masters of using color to maximum effect was well-deserved. He uses color so often to create a more striking, bold look and feel in the subjects of his photographs. His photographs were not simply colorful; instead, the colors stirred an emotion and gave more meaning to his photographs, telling a story more richly textured. His ability to render subtle patterns of light and shadow gave more power to his photography, evoking depth and even three dimensions.
Intimate Portraiture
Another defining characteristic of McCurry’s approach is his emphasis on close-up portraits that highlight the humanity of his subjects. He frequently captures people in spontaneous moments, letting their emotions and personalities come to the forefront. Through connecting with his subjects, McCurry crafts portraits that strongly resonate with audiences, encouraging them to explore the narratives behind every face.
Juxtaposition and Context
McCurry often utilizes juxtaposition in his works, contrasting different elements within a single image to foster visual intrigue and comprehension. For instance, he could position classical figures next to modern icons, emphasizing the conflict between cultural traditions and current existence. This approach prompts audiences to consider the intricacies of identity and experiences in an ever-evolving world.
Strong Compositional Techniques
McCurry’s images frequently highlight robust compositional features that direct the observer’s focus. He employs methods like central framing and leading lines to highlight his subjects and reduce background distractions. This method enables a concentrated analysis of emotion and storytelling in every image.
Humanitarian Focus
Throughout his career, McCurry has consistently focused on documenting the human consequences of conflict and displacement. His work remains one of the strongest reminders of people’s strength and dignity in difficult circumstances. By documenting moments that express pain and yet show hope, McCurry allows the common humanity that transcends cultural divides to shine through.
Key Quotation
“There‘s something contemplative or meditative about photography, which for me is a kind of state of grace.”
This quote sums up McCurry‘s philosophy of photography as a connective art and a means of reflection. He approaches the act of shooting not just to capture images but as an avenue into the deeper understandings of cultures and experiences via the lens.
Analysis of an Image
Color as Emotional Anchor
The interaction of green and red establishes the emotional basis of the image. The dark green of her eyes, with the backdrop, imparts a feeling of continuity and depth. Green often signifies life, renewal, and hope, which contrasts strongly with the frayed and faded condition of her red scarf-emblematic of struggle, survival, and passion. This contrast between hope and struggle is what forms the core of the photograph’s emotional impact. The complementary colors of red and green evoke a balancing effect that enhances the timeless beauty of this photograph.
Lighting: Soft, Natural, and Intimate
McCurry uses soft, diffused lighting to accentuate the subject‘s features without having any harsh shadows. The texture of her skin, the wear of her clothing, and the vividness of her eyes all come to life with this lighting. The soft light gives a feeling of intimacy, drawing the viewer into the subject as if the captured moment is deeply personal and candid. The natural lighting also highlights her unfiltered expression, making the image feel real and raw.
Composition: Centered Yet Dynamic
It’s straight-out composition, yet really expert. Although the subject is positioned square at the middle of the frame, for all that, a tight concentration at square level is focused into the action of her eyes to hold view with the camera; confrontative, it connects—eyes staring directly into a subject’s soul. In her head partially faced off from the inside in her headscarf, here’s a tiny asymmetry, yet creating a more dynamic shot.The tight crop eliminates distractions, ensuring that the viewer’s attention remains on her expression, her eyes, and the story they seem to tell. This decision heightens the intensity of the portrait by isolating her from any surrounding context.
Texture: A Story Within the Details
Every detail in the image–from her weathered scarf to the delicate imperfections of her skin–tells a story.
The torn scarf: Holes and frayed edges of her red scarf symbolize hardship, poverty, and displacement. These small details hint at the tough conditions of her life as a refugee.
Her skin and hair: The unpolished skin and her slightly tousled hair demonstrate her naturalness, untouched by anything artificial, and her very human vulnerability.
These textures make the photograph almost tangible; it grounds it in reality and invites the viewer to imagine the rough condition of life in a refugee camp.
Expression and Gaze: Emotional Resonance
This picture was made in 1984 in the midst of the Soviet-Afghan War, when millions were displaced due to violence and political upheaval. At the time of this picture, Sharbat Gula was living in a refugee camp in Pakistan.
Cultural markers: Her red scarf is a traditional garment, which indicates her identity as an Afghan girl. She is placed in her cultural and geographical context even as the photograph universalises her experience.
Historical Significance: This picture became the face of all refugees around the world, but especially of the women and children who suffer most in these warlike conditions. The picture showed the human aspect of war and gave prominence to Afghan refugees.
In a single moment, McCurry did not only freeze a single figure but a big narrative of pain and resilience.
Citations:
18, Nov, et al. Steve McCurry, www.stevemccurry.com/. Accessed 13 Dec. 2024.
All-About-Photo.com. “Steve McCurry.” All About Photo, 11 Dec. 2024, www.all-about-photo.com/photographers/photographer/81/steve-mccurry.
“Afghan Girl.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 17 Oct. 2024, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Afghan_Girl#:~:text=Sharbat%20Gula%20was%20one%20of,Nikkor%20105mm%20Ai%2DS%20F2.
“Soviet Invasion of Afghanistan.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, inc., 21 Oct. 2024, www.britannica.com/event/Soviet-invasion-of-Afghanistan.
Identity Mindmap
Citations:
“8 Essential Portrait Photography Techniques and Tips – 2024.” MasterClass, www.masterclass.com/articles/essential-portrait-photography-techniques-and-tips. Accessed 13 Dec. 2024.
Kahn, Elizabeth. “The Best Portrait Photographers of All Time.” The Independent Photographer, 6 Dec. 2024, independent-photo.com/news/the-best-portrait-photographers/.
Identity Unit Definition
Portraiture Definition:
Portraiture in photography is a distinct genre aimed at capturing the essence, personality, and identity of individuals or groups, going beyond simple visual representation to uncover profound emotional realities and personal traits through diverse techniques. At its essence, portraiture goes beyond merely capturing an image of an individual’s face; it acts as an artistic depiction that aims to express the person’s personality, feelings, and narrative through thoughtful attention to composition, lighting, and positioning. The layout of visual components in the frame is vital for directing the viewer’s focus, and skill in lighting improves atmosphere and emphasizes features. Skillful posing is essential for creating appealing and genuine portraits, necessitating knowledge of human anatomy and psychology to direct subjects into positions that highlight their most attractive features. Portrait photography includes multiple styles, such as traditional portraits that emphasize the face and torso, candid portraits capturing subjects in spontaneous moments, environmental portraits that utilize the background for added context, and lifestyle portraits depicting people engaged in their daily routines. An effective portrait necessitates establishing a connection between the photographer and the subject to encourage comfort and authentic expression, frequently improved through dialogue or items. In conclusion, portraiture is a complex and layered art form that seeks to convey not only a resemblance but also the essence of its subjects; through adeptly combining composition, lighting, posing, and emotional engagement, photographers can produce impactful images that strongly resonate with audiences.
An example of Portraiture (or portrait photography):
Citations:
DeGuzman, Kyle. “Exploring Portrait Photography – Types, Styles, Concepts & More.” StudioBinder, 26 Apr. 2024, www.studiobinder.com/blog/what-is-portrait-photography-definition/.
Street Photography Contact Sheet
Initial Selection: Yellow Contact Sheet
My first contact sheet is of various scenes from the Hutongs, depicting how people interact in background with different cultural elements such as nature and shops. In these backgounds, I tried to capture variation real-life interactions: street vendors sleeping, families traveling together through motorcycle, and child running. The main concept is the feeling of somehow peace and sense of story.
Narrowing Down: Green Contact Sheet
I narrowed down my focus to 10 images that strongly resonate with my idea of appreciating the history of Chinese culture after the first round of selection. These “focused shots” capture important cultural moments and genuine interactions. I observed a universal theme of warmth, laughter, and shared experiences in the chosen pictures.
In these images, the vibrant hues and sunlight increase the emotional intensity, encouraging viewers to connect with the scenes on a personal level. Every picture shows a moment in the daily life of the Hutongs, highlighting the connections that bring people together in city setting. They represent my desire to display the beauty of human relationships and the depth of cultural customs.
Final Selection: Red Contact Sheet
At last, I have chosen my top three “preferred” images that most accurately capture the essence of my project. These photos are remarkable for their skill in capturing a sense of story while also conveying the appreciation of Chinese History.
Picture 1:
This picture depicts a peaceful scene, framed by the entrance to a classic courtyard. The main subject is a person walking pass, encircled by plants and sunlight coming in from a gap in the room. This piece focuses on calmness and self-reflection in the midst of a busy external setting.
Key Components:
The ambient light from nature produces a cozy feeling, creating a more obvious texture of the courtyard.
The central subject, person walking indicates a link to the surroundings and culture, which conveys a feeling of the person getting pass by various cultural elements just like going through the history.
The complex but balanced architectural features in the image represent the deep cultural background, encouraging on lookers to admire the charm of these areas.
Picture 2:
In this exciting photo, two people on a motorcycle pass by traditional green trees and a lake. The motion reflects the liveliness and rapid rhythm of daily life in the Hutongs, in contrast to the tranquility of the previous elements mentioned.
Key components:
The motorcycle zipping through the hutongs serves as a striking reminder of the dynamic interplay between the bustling energy of modern life and the serene atmosphere of these historic alleyways. This contrast illustrates how both activity and tranquility coexist in our daily experiences.
The lush trees and gentle waterways in the background enhance the natural beauty of Beijing, enriching the experience of wandering through the hutongs. They remind us that nature is woven into the fabric of urban life, providing a peaceful retreat amidst the city’s vibrancy.
In this moment captured in the photo, we see a sense of camaraderie among the riders, reflecting the strong bonds that form within these lively communities. The interactions and shared experiences highlight the deep connections that thrive in the hutongs, showcasing how relationships flourish in this unique cultural landscape.
Vision & Statement of Intent
Vision & Statement of Intent:
In my opinion, the Beijing Hutongs are much more than just narrow avenues; they are living stories filled with the echoes of the past and the rhythm of everyday life. These winding streets, with their worn bricks, intricate doorways, and subtle whispers of the past, have always fascinated me because they are so deeply cultural. Hence, through my street photography, I hope to capture the diverse activities and elements imbued with history and culture, specifically conveying the theme of appreciation for Chinese culture through gazing at daily Hutong moments.
I hope my pictures give the audience a feeling of tranquility, a feeling of timelessness, and, most importantly, a feeling of connection. My approach would be profoundly deliberate. I rely on what is called the “fishing technique”: I would watch and wait patiently until the opportune moment comes into being.
My process starts with the careful selection of places that highlight the essence of Hutongs, whereby the textures of history and culture are in each and every corner. Composition is very important; I focus on building frames that stress the richness of the background, ensuring that each detail contributes to the story I wish to tell. And then, I just wait for life to occur naturally in front of the scene—spontaneous gestures, imperceptible interactions, or even the isolation of a single figure.
These candid moments, when intertwined with the cultural dimensions of the environment, become images that radiate meaning.
Example of Background with story and cultural elements: 
Citations:
“Capturing Beijing–the Summer Palace and Street Photography in the Hutongs: August 2024.” David Shams, www.davidshamswriter.com/photography/capturing-beijing-the-summer-palace-and-street-photography-in-the-hutongs. Accessed 13 Dec. 2024.
Concepts & Revised Mindmap
6 Concepts From the 20:
- Fishing Technique
- Focus on the background
- Visual Elements
- Balance and Harmony
- Composition
- Perspective and angle
Revised Mindmap: 
Citations:
Maher, James. “Every Street Photography Tip and Technique You Need to Know.” New York Photography, Prints, Portraits, Events, Workshops, James Maher Photography, 4 Apr. 2022, jamesmaherphotography.com/street-photography-tips/.