Signs of You, Photography Challenge
This image could indicate that the basket was set there by the person taking the photo.
A bit more direct, framed around me holding flowers while walking.
You can anticipate that the next moment will be me sitting here or collecting my things.
PHOTO CHALLENGE | Document the moments in your daily life that indicate you were there or will be there. Create a sense of anticipation for the viewer of the you the photographer ready to step into the frame.
After a two month exploration of seeking inspiration for our storyboard project and the difficulties therein, there was one concept that will collectively strengthen our storyboards. Learning to show signs of ourselves, of our presence without the standard shot smiling at the camera. What do photos look like when your physical presence is expected or you were just there? What signs of you are in your life? I find this particular element important because what is our photography if we’re not in some way apart of it?
These are the seemingly quiet, simple, humble, and mid-range shots. They are reflective of who you are, what you’re doing, and the details of your life. These are the little things that your loved ones stumble upon and instantly know you’ve been there or think of you.
This will be an intimate look at your every day, at your daily rituals and habits, hobbies, and passions. Look around your home, where you go, what you’re doing, and identify moments that are inherently present simply because of you.
Each image you take should create something like a sense of anticipation. The viewer should easily feel a relatable intimacy or familiarity even, like they’ve stumbled upon an everyday moment that could have very well been something they did or even want to do.
Your cozy spot on the couch, your cup nearby, looking down while you’re walking, picking some flowers, reading a book, pouring a glass of wine, preparing a meal, working in the garden, footprints in the sand, preparing your tea, a collection of beach treasures, walking your dog–the list goes on and on.
Consider this challenge along the lines of faceless self-portraits. You’re welcome to get in the frame, show yourself in any capacity you like, except your face directed toward the camera (that’s not the point). Your photos need to show you without showing you directly.
Below you’ll find some examples in photos I’ve taken recently, some you may have seen and others you haven’t. If for any reason this challenge isn’t clear, please send me a message so we can work through it together.
