Final Images
Final Virtual Gallery
Final Evaluation
When I first commenced the project, I researched and thought about various different ways I could explore the theme Union. I knew that I wanted to step out of my comfort zone and once I read that Union was the selected topic, the first thing I thought of was relationships and family however, after having done more thinking and research, one theme really stood out to me. Cultural fashion, this really caught my eye, once i found many different series from Hassan Hajjaj that’s when I really got inspired to do this and it was something I was genuinely interested in.
The first step I took with this project, was finding available models and their potential cultural background. This was challenging as not many people are willing to be a model for a photography project however, after researching more about Hassan Hajjaj and looking at Omar Victor Diopp`s work, I had planned my first photoshoot out. The model named Nigel was willing to be a part of my photography project and he had an intriguing cultural background with many different traditions. I then went on to do self portraits which were quite strong however I did not have many strong final outcomes which appealed to me.
The next part of the project was going to be a different fashion style, I ended up selecting the streetwear style, taking inspiration from Jamel Shabazz but replicating it in the modern day. I chose to do this because it contrasts completely the cultural traditional clothing. I do like this side of the project and I enjoyed exploring this theme however, In my opinion this side of the project is weaker than the cultural aspect. I think the photos taken in the streetwear could possibly have a lack of meaning.
Overall this project was a success, I stepped out of my comfort zone and started doing portraiture rather than landscapes or street photography which was what I was comfortable doing. If I could change this final project, I would have done the whole project about cultural traditional clothing blending with modern day designer brands and use various. I did not do this for the project because I could not find many models which were accepting of showing their culture and background. In conclusion, I find that this project clearly represents Union through the unity of traditional clothing and modern day clothing comparing the two.