Non Traditional Self Portrait

NON-TRADITIONAL SELF PORTRAIT

Time to reflect. Take a look at yourself in a new way. Use a contemporary approach to photographing yourself in a nontraditional format. Consider costuming, makeup, digital editing, new perspectives, lighting, environment and pose. 

Why do a self portrait?”

The most important reason is because the creative process is one of self discovery and realization and not just technical know-how. This makes painting a very introspective art form since one of the requirement for great art should be individuality and uniqueness of style, and although these are not the only strengths required, any serious artist who has held a paintbrush in their hands will tell you they wish to paint their subject matter as no one else ever has before them.

There is a unique psychological thing that takes place when you look into your own eyes and face and paint your own portrait. Your own face suddenly becomes a mirror to your soul, the real you, and strange things happen as you paint. I would recommend it to anyone in pursuit of the prize, ‘know thyself’. Do it often, you will be amazed at what you discover about yourself.

Research and plan your self portrait!

Avoid silly iPhone apps, Photo Booth effects and other cliche filters.

REMEMBER THE RULES:

• You may use photo editing programs to alter your photo if you choose. 

• Objective/Concept: Did you creatively solve the problem as an independent thinker? Image should be well thought out, planned and executed. Image should be personalized with a unique & meaningful response. Image is new and original (avoid cliche and stereotypical responses).

• Design: How elegantly do you employ photographic principles of composition and/or principles of design in your work?

• Camera Exposure: How well do you consider and use proper exposure settings on your camera when taking this picture? Did you use the good lighting and the correct white-balance setting? Is the exposure well focused?

• Presentation: Did you make simple edits in a photo program to adjust levels, crop or clean up the image? Did you upload it to at the proper image resolution and on time?

HOW:

Set Camera on AV Mode

Shoot at a low F Number

Use self timer if you need to or a tripod