FINAL SHOOT NO.2

INFLUENCED IDENTITY

After the success of the test shoot last month, I chose to reshoot these images using the infinity cove at university. The infinity cove is a white backdrop that reaches floor to the ceiling, ensuring that a crisp white background is achieved within images, allowing industry standards to be achieved. I felt that the lighting could be improved from the test shots so this was a perfect opportunity to use facilities to their fullest.

I was unable to confirm an MUA/hair stylist to assist me on this shoot, so I took it upon myself to use skills that I has acquired within my makeup technique classes in first and second year of university. Although I am confident in applying my day-to-day makeup, I felt that this was a little bit of a gamble to be doing on the day of a final shoot incase of any mistakes or mishaps, however it luckily paid off, as the application looked flawless within the images. This is another example of how much I doubt the technical skills I possess. I do feel reassured  that I am competent in carrying out such tasks since the completion of the photoshoot, however I really need to work on the confidence beforehand. By walking into a situation with a positive attitude, I am more likely to exit with positive outcomes than already feeling defeated.

Denby Axam, who worked alongside me previously on the data board shoot, agreed to return to work alongside me again as my previous photographer was unavailable. As I know Denby personally outside of studies, it enabled me to feel entirely comfortable in front of the camera, achieving great posture and poses which I could then work upon within Photoshop in post-production. Choosing the right photographer with skills that match the desired outcome has worked in my favour over the past two shoots, as I have barely had to retouch the images in photoshop as the quality was already of an impeccable standard. Throughout my studies I have found that when the photography/lighting is of a high quality, alongside the make-up artistry application, the amount of post-production and retouching is reduced. This also reduces the amount of time it takes to finalise the outcomes, as retouching can take hours on end which is easily avoided. As I am so far behind on my proposed schedule, it it essential that I take all of precautions necessary to give me a substantial amount of time to complete all aspects of the project.

I was unsure whether the collage elements of these images needed to be tidied up as sometimes the layered items aren't lining up correctly with the outline of the body. After sharing this concern with Jennifer and a few other creative students, they expressed that I need to stop being such a perfectionist as a collage isn't supposed to be neat and things aren't supposed to be perfect. I have taken these comments on board as after reflecting and reviewing the final outcomes I now agree with their opinions as the rough edges are what explains to the collage concept to the viewer.

In future, when I can feel myself stressing over images within the editing and finalisation stage, I will ensure that I show my work to other creative students as well project mentors. This will allow me to gain external opinions on positives and improvements that can be made. I worry too much when it comes to my work. When I send so much time on one piece of work, I start to over analyse the smallest, irrelevant things. This falls back to the issue of using time effectively within this stage of production, as I cannot afford to waste time over editing over unnecessary elements.