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Inevitably, photographers turn their cameras on themselves to create self portraits. Some self portraits are created by chance. The lighting was good, a reflection inspired, or a shadow complemented the scene. Other self portraits are meant to reflect on the individual’s being. It can reflect where they are mentally, physically, or spiritually. You are going to take a series of 20 self portraits.
Objective: Explore personal identity, mood, and storytelling through a self-portrait that does not have to be a literal head-and-shoulders photo. Use creative techniques to represent yourself in ways that feel natural and authentic.
Why: Self-portraits teach you control over every aspect of a photograph—composition, lighting, emotion, symbolism—but they don’t have to feel like “yearbook pictures.” This project is about experimenting and finding your own voice without pressure to look “perfect.”
Guidelines
Guidelines
You don’t have to show your face. You can use shadows, reflections, hands, feet, silhouettes, or objects that represent you.
Set the mood. Think about how lighting, color, and composition can reflect your personality, emotions, or current state of mind.
Use the environment. Your room, favorite outdoor spot, car, or workspace can be part of the story.
Try unusual perspectives. Shoot from above, below, behind, or through objects.
Incorporate movement. Blur, multiple exposures, or creative posing can make the image more dynamic.
Use props. Objects you own can become stand-ins for your personality or history, tha camera can be in one final photo.
Experiment with reflections. Use mirrors, glass, water, or other reflective surfaces to layer your image.
Post-processing is fair game. You can enhance mood or create surreal effects in editing.
On your website: 3 final self-portraits an a proofsheet with at least 20 images. in different styles (one can be literal, two more abstract or symbolic).
A short reflection (100–150 words) on what you chose to show about yourself and why you approached it that way.
Self Portrait Resources
Self Portrait Resources
https://mymodernmet.com/beautifully-vulnerable/
https://wherewonderwaits.com/self-portrait-photography/
READ THIS: Interview with Ales Stoddard 365 project
IDEAS:
https://www.format.com/magazine/resources/photography/cool-self-portrait-ideas
Cindy Sherman – Known for using herself in elaborate costumes and roles.
Francesca Woodman – Dreamy, often abstract images exploring identity and presence.
Lee Friedlander – Creative use of shadows and reflections.
Zanele Muholi – Powerful, identity-driven self-portraiture.
Vivian Maier – Candid self-portraits in mirrors and reflections.
Nan Goldin – Honest, raw portraits showing real life moments.
Man Ray – Surrealist experimentation with form and light.
Elina Brotherus – Quiet, atmospheric self-portraits with a fine art feel.
Carrie Mae Weems - At the table series
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