As my project continues and takes shape I have faced the challenge many photographers have faced these past six weeks, that of social distancing and portraiture. I have seen some really excellent work by fellow cohorts, who have utilised face time to set up shoots. For me this method lacked the control of lighting, scene setting and camera manipulation that I prefer.
Further research and recommendations from friend led me to articles about the trend of Porch Portraits. This practice seemed to start in the US and would typically see families sat for portraits outside their houses. Facebook soon became awash with porch portrait sites, either promoting the practice or photographers looking for commissions. I have to admit that this initially made me feel a little uncomfortable as it seemed to go against government recommendations and had the potential to put others at risk.
https://www.facebook.com/PorchPortraits/
Not wishing to write this off as a way in which to continue my practice and further the research for my project I continued to internally battle with the concept of reaching out to locals to photograph. If I’m honest I’m still not entirely sure if I will do this, especially as in other countries photographers are being urged not to carry out this type of practice. We’re expecting a new set of regulations to be announced on Sunday 10th May by our PM, possibly relaxing the lock-down, I’ll wait to see.
https://fstoppers.com/lifestyle/do-you-think-new-trend-shooting-porch-sessions-dangerous-470569
The Space Between 