Part 3

In my last post, I discussed the process that went into my second “Single Picture Story” assignment. To recap, I finally figured out how to form ideas for photos that were a better use of my resources. I also learned a new method of brainstorming. In this post I will be going over my next assignment…

Two Picture Story #1

For this assignment, we now had the challenge of telling a story in two photos. I don’t know which assignment was more challenging. Only having one photo, or having to double the amount of photos I turn in. This assignment was very stressful. So stressful, in fact, that I waited until the absolute latest point to shoot anything. I am usually the queen of procrastination, but I was not feeling this assignment AT ALL. After coming to my senses, choosing my topic, and brainstorming shot ideas, I finally had something to turn in.

My topic for this assignment was my struggles with my body image. This being my topic is definitely a culprit for my procrastination. I was nervous about taking photos of myself while in a vulnerable state. My first shot idea was to show my scale (which I have not used for awhile). After that I wanted to show myself being upset by the numbers on the scale. I stood straight up, sat with my head in my knees, and stared into the lens. I also wanted to show myself looking into a mirror and possibly do something with measuring tape. I have my inspiration photos in the gallery below.

⋆, Pinterest

brook, Pinterest

haley_scott, fanpop.com

Fiorella Figueredo, Pinterest

I liked the imagery that showed the skin being tugged at. There is a tension there that I was very inspired by. As I mentioned before, I also wanted to use measuring tape as a prop. I wanted to make it feel as if it were choking me or holding me hostage. This is reminiscent on how beauty standards make me feel on a daily basis.

During the actual shoot, I was not in the greatest state of mind. I was tired and I had no motivation to actually put myself in front of the camera. However, I needed to get the assignment done and I got myself to work. I squeezed my tripod into my small upstairs hallway and tried to frame up the bathroom as best I could. I unintentionally had an organic mask going on since the door frame was in shot. I first stood on my scale and took a few photos looking up, with my head in my hands, etc. Then I decided to crouch down on the scale and put my head down. Almost as if I was giving myself a hug. After struggling to keep my balance for several frames, I moved onto the floor. I took a few frames there and decided to move on.

I took a break from shooting and it became apparent to me that I don’t have a great idea of what I want my final product to look like. I stressed out, watched TikTok, and then forced myself back out into the hallway to take more photos. I took some photos looking at my body in a mirror and also tried to recreate the drawings of the bodies being tugged at. It didn’t take me long to get the photos and I was praying that they turned out ok. Though this project was very nerve-wracking. I am proud that I was able to be more vulnerable.

Final photos are in the gallery below.