For the ‘Image-Making’ unit, I had to construct a series of photographs, which later would be produced into a photo book. I had the choice of choosing two different pathways to go down — both surrounding the theme of the documentary, however, one being reality and the other being fiction.

I’ve always been attracted to the idea of constructing scenes and seeing how the viewer may interpret it. As I began to research, I found that some of my key influences were in the concept and style I was going looking for, which made me more excited about the project.

I knew I wanted to push myself and chose documentary fiction, but it was developing that idea. Even after researching, I had a couple of ideas, but I was not entirely sure for myself. So I later started to read short stories & poems and watch short films, to perhaps base my concept on, or to develop some ideas. This is how I got to my plan, I always like to shoot ‘things’ in my work in a simplistic way, and relating that to a poem I found was great. Because I based my concept off of the words loneliness, emptiness and isolation, this idea, along with the poem would be demonstrated through the various subject, differently, but all leading back to the poetry and words.

I believe through this process; I have improved my communication between me and my subject and the planning/production of the images. As I chose documentary fiction, I learnt that I had to think about every little detail. From the clothing, location, props, booking out equipment/subjects and also preparing for backups just in case. But this has taught me a different side of being a photographer, which has taught me valuable lesson/experiences.

Some struggles with this unit were the British weather; I can expect this, at this time of year, but the constantly changing weather. Luckily the dark clouds in some of the images added to the moodiness of the photos. Another issue was a model quit the last minute, as I had the set and outfit ready. Luckily I had someone else to do it, and I feel that he was better suited for the image, but it was still stressful.

I went with SAAL Digital UK, to print my book with, as they were reasonably cheap for the quality standard. Throughout designing my book layout in InDesign, it took me days, sorting out which picture to put together etc. And thinking maybe I should have had done more shoots, however with the deadline nearing, I wanted to get this sent off, so I could have it back for hand in. I titled my book “Why Does Everyone Leave”, I wanted the title to depict all the different subjects within the book. When I received my book, I was thrilled with it, the printing was excellent quality, and for my first photo book, it wasn’t that bad.

Overall I am delighted with the outcome; I learnt new skills and this project expanded my ideas for the future. I enjoyed exploring new artist and techniques they used in their processes. Hopefully, the viewer can understand or interpret it to their understanding.

Below is the final outcome, in a Video format –