Mini Photography Blog 

Behind the glass

The making of my sketch: 

While creating the plan of my photo, I had a clear vision of what I wanted to execute. From the second I saw the prompt, I envisioned a mirror with someone looking through at a completely different body from their own, portraying body dysmorphia. This is a very emotionally-intense subject, so I knew shadows and low lighting would be needed to accurately depict my scene. In my sketch, I had intended to place clothing on the mirror as another contrast, but I swapped it out for beauty products on the table, as this was easier to understand for the audience. I also added in the digital screens depicting bright headlines on media dedicated to changing your looks to help convey the overall message more effectively, and as a source of light in the picture. 

In my photograph, the mise en scene reflects the distorted views of self-image caused by the societal pressure on physical appearance, specifically from social media. My subject is dressed in an outfit completely covering their figure to portray body insecurities. The red hoodie contrasts from the dark room, drawing attention to the subject. The mirror directly in front of the subject reflects a distorted image of a face, symbolizing dysmorphia and misperception. The laptop and iPad placed on the table showcase tutorials on how to change and optimize looks, showing media’s influence on self-identity. I utilized low-key lighting, having the only light source be the technology to set the melancholic scene, with feelings of isolation and lack of direction. The composition is meticulously done, as I surrounded my subject with beauty-enhancing products as they analyze their reflection to strengthen the theme of self-image and insecurities. I edited the photo to intensify the shadows and reflections to elevate the feelings of shame and isolation. 

Creating this photo was not a fast or easy process. After all my planning for the perfect shot, I had to find and set up all my props in a way where the camera would capture them and they could help tell the story. After all that, lighting was another battle I had to conquer. Although I brightened the screens as much as I could, I needed more light to help illuminate both my subject and the pictures on the mirror, so I directed the flash of an I phone towards my subject. This signature I phone lighting was another choice I made to help connect social media to the issues I was portraying. 

 

Camera Work Techniques

Tilt movement shot: This shot was pretty straightforward and simple to create. I had my subject stand as I kept the camera leveled with her waist and smoothly tilted from the bottom up to show her entirely. The hardest part was keeping the camera still and consistently tilting it upwards. This shot can help reveal information and establish power. 

Pan movement shot: Again, this was another easy shot to complete. I had my subject pose as I, again kept the camera stationary as I panned from the right to the left. This movement allows viewers to feel immersed in the setting, follows the action, and reveals details.

Dolly movement shot: This shot was a bit more difficult to plan out and execute. It was hard for me to differentiate this shot from a handheld movement, as I did not have the proper equipment. I maintained steadiness to the best of my ability as I followed my subject around with smooth movements. This shot can create a sense of emotional connection to the characters as the viewers are more engaged and can reveal information.

Tracking movement shot: This shot is similar to the dolly shot to create, the only difference being that since I was mimicking the movement of a camera on tracks, I could not actively follow my subject around and kept the camera moving in one direction. This creates a smooth and continuous feel, immersing the viewers. 

Zoom movement shot: This movement was very simple to create, and I had fun filming it. I simply focused on my subject and zoomed in. This shot draws the viewer’s attention to certain details and creates emotion.

Reverse zoom movement shot: I had the most difficulty creating this shot. I couldn’t multitask in moving backwards while zooming in and it definitely took more than a few tries. This movement can create dramatic effects and feelings of shock. 

Handheld camera movement: I enjoyed this shot the most as it is the easiest and most natural to film. I simply followed my subject around, freely moving the camera. This shot creates feelings of realism and adds chaos/spontaneity.

Boom shot movement: This was another fun shot to take. I had my subject stand on a stool as I kept the camera steady and moved up to down to show her entire body, without angling the camera in any direction. This shot can give viewers a new perspective, create dramatic effect, and show power dynamics.