Photographers are often the ones who capture everyday life, documenting periods in history for future generations. Dorothea Lange became famous for documenting the Great Depression and capturing the human experience. Photographers today are taking a similar approach and capturing what their world looks like in 2020, from their own families at home to the lines at the grocery store and the empty shelves. Lange was always looking, seeing what other’s may be overlooking. Now it is your turn, what do you see?
Materials
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A portrait of Education Associate, Sophia Gipstein. A camera (whatever you have at home will work just fine: digital camera, smartphone, tablet, or even a Polaroid)
- Computer (optional if you would like to upload your photos and use computer editing tools to add details).
Instructions
- Practice looking. Take time to sit quietly and observe your surroundings. What do you see?
- Select your subject. Is your parent making a meal? Is your sibling doing schoolwork or playing a game? Do you want to document your neighbors at their front door, standing a safe distance away? Look up “Front Porch Project” online for some examples. (Do not forget to ask their permission!)
- Take multiple photographs of your subject to ensure you have options, BUT do not just click away without intention. Pay attention to what is or is not in the frame, where the light is coming from, and what is in the background. A good photograph takes patience and careful looking.
- Already taking a lot of selfies to send to friends and family? Try taking formal self portraits to capture your life at home.
- Photographer tip: Begin with family members if you are not comfortable photographing people. Over time you will become more comfortable with the process.