Isms are different ways of portraying photography, Romanticism, Objectivism, Neoclassicism are examples of them.

For my final project, I want to focus my work on 2 different types of ‘isms’, Emotionalism and Romanticism. Since my work will predominantly be on the topic of relationships ( intimate and platonic ) I believe that both these isms fit quite smoothly overall.

Romanticism –

Romanticism was a movement that originated in the 18th century where artists and photographers placed a high value on emotions and subjective experiences. They believed that emotions such as love or fear were more important then rational thought or scientific discovery. Romantics celebrated individuality, personal freedom and self-expression, and all was a big part of the culture of romanticism. People were often portrayed as heroes who went against societal norms and stood for themselves. Nature also played a big part of portraying romanticism through photography and art, as romantics often viewed nature as source of inspiration, beauty and truth. They believed that nature was a strong force that could stir up and portray emotion and almost lead to spiritual experiences.

For the input of romanticism into my work I want to focus on the aspect of silhouette and touch, allowing both pieces to bring out emotion and impact towards work and what it offers to the viewer. Touch can be perceived as both intimate and platonic depending on the context of the photograph, and I feel like that will be a very powerful way of showing not just romanticism but emotionalism as well.

Emotionalism –

Emotionalism is a convey of emotions through photographs, being able to see, feel and understand how a person may be feeling through an image is a very transformative way of pointing out views, links and hidden meanings through photography. Emotionalists often use portraiture to show emotion leaving it up the the photographed to show or prove how they are feeling. With facial expressions, a photograph can engage a viewer on a personal level through intimate feelings and emotional depth. An emotional photograph is a master of non-verbal communication, a perfect way to relate without talking, making a strong enough link with whoever may see it, no matter the situation or environment. It is always felt.

Emotionalism will play a very large part of my work, even through photographs that may not be portraits, body language will show so much expression and emotion it will be hard to see through it. With including portraits in my work too, emotion will be unavoidable, I want to include aspects like eye contact and blatant emotions like sadness through crying and love through the saying ‘the look of love’. Emotions can be perceived and picked up on so easily through simple eye contact and I would love to include that in my work. Love will be a very important part of my project and capturing that will bring so much joy, not just to me but to everyone involved.