Jessica Pattison

Self-Portrait Refelection

As I was sitting on my couch watching TV I couldn’t help noticing the beautiful light coming in from my window. It was casting such a dramatic shadow on the wall. So I took this opportunity to take some self- portraits. I wanted to experiment with different poses that would accent the diagonal shadow cast on the wall. The results were very pleasing. I love the high contrast between the beige couch and the dark, crisp shadow. I had a really great experience taking these photos. I hadn’t done a self- portrait in such a long time. I really liked many of the shots from this shoot. I think what I like the most is that the photo isn’t just about me but it’s about art and line and form, which is really what I love. The portrait is more than a picture of me, but it represents my love of art.

Window Light Reflection

Natural light is the most beautiful light; Organic, raw and enveloping. At first I wasn’t sure how to use the light. I thought of the lovely old silhouette of a man and woman I had from an antique store and old cameo broaches which became my inspiration. Though silhouettes are simple, there is something elegant and intriguing about them. I played a around with negative shape and really wanted to get a lovely flip of her pony-tail. It was a really rainy overcast day so the light was flat. The trees outside can be seen through the window, which adds texture. I’d like to continue experimenting with window light in the future.

Street Photography Reflection

I appreciate the work and the honesty of street photographers. I find the candid photos very interesting; however, it is not my favourite type of photography. I didn’t have an easy time taking photos of perfect strangers. I felt extremely awkward and intrusive especially when people are gave me awkward looks. I also had a hard time approaching people and became very anxious. It was so strange for me because with a camera I felt like I was invading their personal space. But to just approach someone without taking their photo I could have talked to them. Street photography is so pure and raw. It is so inspiring because of how difficult it was for me to approach someone let alone get a good photo.