The goal of this project was to create a portrait using experimental techniques that would catch the attention of passersby. The photographs needed to be used straight from the camera without any editing. I decided to work with fabric and light manipulation to produce a sense of mystery.

When photographing this portrait, I tested different ways to position the fabric and light. I also experimented with blur and focus. Eventually, I discovered that the light gauzy fabric could resemble smoke or foamy water. The final piece plays on this idea. In the portrait, the model’s situation is ambiguous at first. The composition draws viewers to her eye, which peeks through the fabric floating above her.

This portrait was successful in evoking a response of curiosity from viewers. I was able to create an image that was texturally and compositionally interesting, while also allowing for personal interpretation.