2D Studio Art: Photography
Just For Me is a series of photographs that I have wanted to create for years. As the daughter of creative parents, I have always been inspired by my family, especially my father- Antoine. This series is documentation of my own personal struggle with being photographed, my relationship with photography, my relationship with my father, as well as showcasing his brand-new jewelry creations that he’s been working on diligently since Covid-19 struck our planet. I’m familiar with portrait photography, most of my work is either product photography or portraiture. Yet, it is ultra-rare that I take a self-portrait with my DSLR; smart phone selfies are how I have previously documented myself, and now-a-days this happens even less.
Self-confidence is extremely important in the present day. With social media inundating us with eye-catching, provocative and photoshopped imagery, the internet has ultimately skewed our society’s ideals of reality. This phenomenon has personally challenged me in fear of persecution alongside lack of perfection. The motivation for this portrait series is primarily driven by the desire to challenge myself and conquer fears developed by seeming inadequate as a photography subject. Draped in the jewelry my father has designed, layer in the extra confidence, story and history I personally use to guard and shield myself. I had to include one image of my dedicated and persevering father, in his humble workspace, as he diligently creates a new piece of wearable art with vintage beads from Lebanon.
I assemble much inspiration from my everyday life; working full time in our family-owned fashion boutique since 2013, the recent birth of my baby girl, Sylvia, and the constant reminder that the seasons change too quickly just like the fashion industry we work in. When seeking inspiration, I head straight to Instagram or Vogue. Nevertheless, when it comes down to true innovation and creativity, I look to my personal favorite photographers and cinematic geniuses’. Stanley Kubrick, Brassaï, Gregory Crewdson, David Lynch and many more. Framed symmetry, moody lighting and captured emotion speak beyond the film in ways that today’s Instagram photographers and filmmakers cannot replicate.
In order to make a portrait timeless, one needs to erase the timestamp inevitably placed and understand the story behind the subject’s eyes. I believe my photographs capture the strong family story behind the art, jewelry and visage. They are timeless and I know these photographs will continue to tell an empowering story of a woman developing confidence and owning her past, present and future.
Everything I Do is for You, 2021, Digital Photograph
Close Encounter, 2021, Digital Photograph
Vintage Sun, 2021, Digital Photograph
