The Chinese Photobook at Aperture

The visit to Aperture was very insightful and interesting. The photographs at the Chinese Photobook revealed many things about its dynamic culture, dramatic twists in politics and its’ rich diverse heritage. The photographs depicting the history of China during numerous years were very different. The section that stood out to me most at this exhibition were the photographs taken of Chinese Leader Mao Zedong. From viewing the photographs, you could tell the photographer took great thought in how he chose to deliberate the photographs of him. Ranging from the angle and position, to the composition of the photographs of Mao gave the audience the impression that he was a “Great” leader, one who was looked up to and highly respected, which surely was an intentional decision. Taking the photos from a low angle allowed us to view him as if we were looking up to him. The lighting were always bright and mainly focused on his face, even shots that were taken outdoors. The backgrounds were mostly not in focus and not as lit as Mao was which made him look much more radiant in comparison. Not only by the way the photos where taken, but in photographs where people surrounded him, were applauding him. The photographs captured Mao at different stages of his life, doing various political and non-political tasks.  The positioning of the physical photographs in the gallery also made an affect of how we understood who this man was. It seemed as if they were positioned from the start of his term to the end, forming a visual record of his reign. I really liked these portraits of him, mainly because it shows how using elements of photography can give definition to a person or thing.

Jimmy Nelson

Jimmy Nelson’s exhibit at the Bryce Wolfowitz gallery was stunning. The images that he captured were simply captivating. His interest in cultures were beautifully depicted through the emotions of the models, and locations where they were shot. I loved that his photographs were composed of very vibrant, saturated colors and of high contrast. It gave the photos an equal balance since the models expressions’ were very serious. The facial expressions drew you into each photo and their culture. He was successful in showing a lot about the culture, by the decisions he made in the positioning of the models, lighting used etc. He showed the woman being strong and independent and the men in other photos equally the same. The one photograph that really stood out to me was the portrait of the man whose face had a tribal painting in black, looking at a 45 degree angle. The intricate detail of this photo lured me in as if I was staring into his soul. The poise of his body and lighting on his skin made us think of him as a strong leader of his tribe or someone of importance that unconsciously whispered “I was here”, which is what Jimmy Nelson is trying to do with this project. Truly an amazing and a successful portrait.

The Public Eye

The last exhibit of the Public eye was ironically very “eye-opening”. It showed me the different ways in which photographs were used and shared before and now. Whether by crowd sourcing, photo journalism, social networks and others. This exhibition opened my eyes to how photography has come a long way and the comparison between how photos were shared centuries ago to now conscious and unconsciously and the fact that photography has always been and still is a social interaction to us. I was really intrigued by Jeff Wolin photographs, where he created a series of portraits in the environments of the subjects home and have hand written stories behind of them. A unique way of how photographs play a role in forming and captivating our memories. In each photograph you were immediately confronted with the portrait, their expression and their story. The choice of having the photos in Black and white, also gives you the feeling that the subject’s story were something of the past.

Final Project

For my final project, I have few ideas in mind, but have not made a final decision. I am thinking of doing some detailed and intricate close-up portraits where each model will have a face painting that depicts themselves, whether it be their favorite sports team, culture or favorite food. I would like to capture very vibrant images that also tells the story of different individuals showcasing that everyone is unique and different.  Another is creating patterns using different types of food. I also thought of an idea themed “seeing double” where i will create a series of photographs of pairs of things that are usually unconscious to us in everyday life. These are ideas that I think I will be able to use in future ad projects for my portfolio to display my design and photography skills combined.

Career goals upon graduation

My goal upon graduation is to start working as a freelance graphic designer and photographer. I would also like to then further my education in pursuing my Masters in Graphic Design. I would like to build long lasting relationships by connecting with people in this industry who share the same passion as I do along the way. I want my portfolio to show my diversity in advertising and understanding of graphic design principles with my own unique style. Also, my ability to think outside the box and the creative combination of photography in my work. My longterm goal is to be able to open my own Advertising  and Print Agency overseas. I want my portfolio to show my diversity in advertising and understanding of graphic design principles blended with my own unique style and skills in photography.