This project is a foray into the soul of my hometown, Sari, captured through fleeting glimpses and candid encounters. Inspired by the introspective beauty and dynamic visual effects of Japanese street photographers like Tatsuo Suzuki and Takuma Nakahira.
The concept of this collection is also inspired by American photographer, Robert Frank. Themes of his works contains the isolation and disconnection in American society, depicting people separated by class, race, or culture in vulnerable or bored moments. Inspired by his works, I too explored themes of isolation, urban observation, and the search for individual identity in my collection.
I used 2 Technical Approaches while taking photos of this project:
- Candid Capture: Blending into the city's fabric, I utilized rapid flash and panning techniques to freeze moments before subjects were fully aware of my presence. This approach yielded raw honesty in expressions and postures, a stark contrast to staged portraits.
- Visual Storytelling: Influenced by the pandemic's unsettling mood, I embraced compositional asymmetry, high contrasts, and motion blurs. These elements evoked a sense of disquiet and uncertainty, mirroring the global atmosphere while adding visual intrigue.
More than just technical exploration, this project was a window into the souls of my community. Observing people unaware revealed facets of their personalities and expressions rarely seen in posed shots. It deepened my understanding of their vulnerabilities and unspoken emotions, forging a stronger connection to my town's tapestry.
Looking past the surface, I sought to decipher unspoken narratives through nonverbal cues. Gender, age, and social class whispered stories through body language, facial expressions, attire, and everyday objects. This project became a visual ethnography, offering a glimpse into the diverse landscape of Sari's residents.
