Evaluation

At the start of this module I was very unsure of how to combine fashion photography with architecture, initially I thought that putting a model in front of a building or structure would confuse the viewer. However, my results prove otherwise and I was very pleased with the results of my images.

I took on the task well as I initially began researching the different ways in which fashion and architecture could be shown in one image. I discovered that this could be done by using a location as my main focus (e.g. a building or structure). Another option was to show structure within fashion garments; e.g. culottes and jackets.

The portfolio review with Rebecca Newman (art director) was extremely helpful as it gave me a clear idea of what path to go down. I was able to critically asses my own work and decide what should be removed from my website. From this discussion I was also able to construct my own brief to work from for current module.

When researching and location scouting I found that I needed to understand my location. This was done to make sure that my model would be a main feature in the composition and also to make sure the location was appropriate.

Having evaluated my first shoot I found that the images were too over posed. Thus, I decided to reshoot to gain a better set of images. In order for my images to be better I needed to scout a better location. Having done this I found it was much easier when shooting, as I already knew where I wanted to go.

Also, having tutorials with Joe was another element I found very useful, as I was able to express and discuss my ideas and gain some feedback. I would always come out feeling positive and know exactly what I needed to do to improve my work. Once again, I found the blog a great resource to use for the rvj as it is easy to use and displays work in a coherent order.

Having collaborated with a make up artist I was able to expand my work further. Chloe and I worked well together and overall was so successful because we had planned the shoot beforehand, in order for it to run smoothly. I enjoyed working alongside another creative individual and feel I have learnt a lot from the experience including how to keep in control and how to manage other people on set.

Moreover, Photoshop was used for the majority of my editing, as I feel comfortable and confident in doing so. To develop from my previous images, I experimented with adding layers and merging multiple images. I did this to create a different aesthetic, it was very successful and a technique I would definitely use again. Not only did photographers inspire me but also an artist called Bruce Riley created works of art that resembled cell structures. I used these images as layers to experiment with and add to my own. I received positive feedback from the results I had created.

Practitioners including Iris Van Herpen and Gareth Pugh majorly influenced my work as I took inspiration from the garments they had created. Although I was unsuccessful in finding clothing specifically designed with structural elements, I was able to make do with what I had. Turning a negative into a positive I collaborated with Jess Levy a fashion stylist to create a series of images that conveyed structure through fashion. The shoot was very successful, however one thing that caused a slight problem came about during postproduction; the model appeared to blend into the background.  Nevertheless, I was able to rectify this when editing. To avoid this happening again in the future, I plan to shoot tethered so that I will be able to notice this straight away.

Furthermore, when developing my work, Roy Whiddon played a large role in my research. His series “Landscapes of the body” influenced me to create my own series of images showing the body as a structure. This shoot was very successful considering beforehand I had no idea about how to light my model. Having done research and with help from Andy I was able to create some beautiful compositions.

Creating a website was an exciting experience. I had to watch several YouTube videos in order to gain an understanding for website building. However, I think it is a great way to show my portfolio of work as potential clients can view it from the comfort of their own home or workspace.

Attending Lara Jade’s talk at the photography show taught me to be critical in what I do, always be in control and to always keep my client in mind. The world is constantly evolving which means that my eye for photography needs to be too. Therefore, throughout this project I created a wide range of images that could attract different audiences depending on their interests.

Something that I struggle with when it comes to shooting is finding models. Usually I use some of my friends, however for one of my shoots I was recommend to use two girls who had previously modelled for my friends event company. In the future I think I need to work harder when looking for models.

Looking back on this project I feel much more confident in the studio. Having experimented with a range of different lighting techniques, I am now able to set up, shoot and take down the equipment with no assistance. I feel this is a great accomplishment for myself.

To conclude, I think that my portfolio of work for this module suits my target audience. I have gained more experience both on location and in the studio from shooting for this module. As well as this, I have expanded my list of contacts from collaborating with a make up artist and stylist. During the overall project there were no major mistakes made, however for my next module I would like to work with a variety of different models to broaden my portfolio.