Strongest
Represents Me
I took this image as a reshoot for the word Home. Rather than conveying the idea of what makes a home, I chose to show when an individual does not have a home. I think the "spotlight" created by the lights help highlight the fact that this individual does not have any where else to be. The isolation created by the darkness also proves the fact that this person, does not have a physical home, but also has no one (specifically loved ones) that can make them feel as if they are at home.
This image relies heavily on light and shadow, if it didn't have this high contrast between the light and dark, I do not believe that this picture would be successful. Although it does not follow the rule of thirds, I think the fact that the subject is centered is what makes the picture so strong. If the model was put in a "sweet spot" the picture would look very off, so to speak, and would not make such a strong statement.
Although I ended up retaking this picture (as seen on the left) I chose this word for personal reasons. When I was in the second grade, I moved from Baltimore County into Howard County. Although this was not very far, it still had a great impact on me. I left many friends behind, and the transition into a new school was not easy. Not a lot of people talked to me because I was new, whereas everyone else knew each other and could easily have conversations. As a child, this was traumatizing (for a little, I'm okay now). I had always thought of my first home as the only home I would ever know and love. But that proved to be incorrect. As I grew older, and started becoming familiar with this new environment, I realized a home is not physical at all, but its what makes a home that matters. I think that helped me recreate my life and understand that one, moving was a great thing and two, I was still going to be able to see my old friends (which I still see once every couple months).
So, this experience basically gave me the idea for this picture. The character is outside to rpove that a home is not physical, but rather created by family, happiness and laughter. Hence why those words are written on the balloons.