file:///Users/steve.zhu/Desktop/Freshmen%20Year/Photography/Triptych/Steve_Triptych%20copy.pdf

My main goal in my triptych is to capture the contrast in people’s perspectives of their lives. What motivated me to capture this goal is the question I would ask myself daily: am I living or surviving? The phrase “Am I living or am I surviving?” reflects a deeper inquiry into the quality of one’s life. It contrasts two states of existence: surviving and living. Surviving refers to the act of staying alive, often under challenging circumstances. It involves meeting basic needs such as food, shelter, and safety. It is a reactive state focused on avoiding harm and ensuring survival. People in survival mode often feel a lack of joy, inspiration, or meaningful connections. Surviving might involve coping with a life-threatening illness, dealing with financial struggles, or living through a natural disaster.
On the other hand, Living means experiencing life to its fullest potential. It involves not just existing but thriving, pursuing passions, building meaningful relationships, and finding purpose and fulfillment. It is a state where one actively engages with life, takes risks and seeks happiness and personal growth. Living might involve traveling, learning new skills, forming deep connections with others, pursuing one’s dreams, or even having a relaxing time in the day. Photographer ÖMER ERDOĞAN gave me inspiration on how to capture these moments with a click of a button.

The title of my triptych, “Living or Surviving,” is deeply personal and inspired by a profound question that I reflect on daily. This observation has led me to develop a unique perspective on what it means to live versus merely survive. The triptych is a visual representation of this concept, capturing moments that embody the essence of living. The photographs in the triptych aim to portray individuals who are not just going through the motions of daily life but are actively engaging with their surroundings. They find joy in simple things, cultivate meaningful connections with loved ones and friends, and take time to appreciate the beauty of each new day. The images portray scenes of relaxation and enjoyment, where people are fully present in the moment. These moments are not just about passing time; they are about savoring life’s precious moments and finding happiness in everyday experiences. Through this triptych, I want to convey that living is not just about existing; it’s about embracing life with purpose, passion, and gratitude. It’s about recognizing the value of each day and making the most of it by connecting with others and finding joy in the world around us. The photographs serve as a reminder to appreciate the beauty in the mundane and strive for a life rich in experiences, relationships, and personal fulfillment. Ultimately, the triptych invites one to reflect on one’s own life and ask: “Am I living or am I surviving?” It encourages viewers to consider what truly matters to them and how to cultivate a more vibrant, meaningful existence.

Upon reflection, I believe one of the significant strengths of my triptych is how effectively it aligns with the overarching concept of “Living or Surviving.” The incorporation of techniques like Intentional Camera Movement and creative editing added a layer of abstraction. However, I recognize a weakness in that the final result leans more towards street photography than the abstract theme I intended. Despite the presence of abstract elements, the core of the images captures real-life moments, which is more characteristic of street photography.