Communicate with your community

 My first assignment of the quarter and I was stumped. I absolutely love working in the studio, I love how you create every little thing in the image produced. My location II class presents me with a much-needed challenge of getting outside and figuring out how to incorporate my current work. This assignment, "Product in Place", is intended for you to get outside and create an image that pertains to your current portfolio. 

I pondered for a while and thought of using a model with perfume outside, but I have photographed perfume quite a bit and didn't like the idea of that repetition. I thought of an outdoor scenic area and placing the product for a hero shot. I scouted areas, researched images and nothing was coming to me, my muse had not presented itself. I then became ill and was forced to take time off of school for a week. I thought, okay, I'll give myself a break, I'll allow myself to heal, and hopefully my brain will ponder on this in the background, and something will come to me...It did not. I found myself back at school, behind schedule, and stressed out. I ended up venting to someone I trust, who has a creative mind, and has always helped me in my creative process. They asked if I had considered photographing men's beauty products, that it could give my portfolio a "yin and yang" feel, and that I should think about that for a little bit. My gears began turning instantly, I became flooded with ideas and direction. This is what I needed. This academic journey has taught me over and over again to reach out for help, even if it is just to vent because there is always some good that comes from it. 

This photo is the product of that conversation and newfound direction.  I admit, I was a bit rusty and out of my element. I received critiques about how it would be nice that the water was running in the background, the lighting is a little flat, and I could add another element that would relate to the product. To me, this photo is important because it's a reminder that if you're stuck and unmotivated, talk to your community and have them help you brainstorm, you never know where it will take you.