Art Directing
My Journey as an Art Director in Advanced Photography
This semester, I found myself walking into unfamiliar territory as I took on the role of an art director for one of the student groups in the studio lighting class. The excitement mingled with anxiety, as the prospect of being an art director was a different type of challenge for me. Despite the initial butterflies, I was ready to embrace the opportunity to expand my knowledge and expertise.
Working with peers brought a refreshing dynamic to the project. The trust I had in my fellow students allowed us to navigate the complexities of our roles with ease. In the end, the image we produced was not just a testament to our technical skills but also to the strength of our teamwork.
Navigating the thin line between being a peer and an art director posed its challenges, but the group and I handled it with ease. Mutual respect outlined the atmosphere within the group, fostering a successful and enjoyable working environment. In the process, I found that I was not just instructing them on the details and “do’s and don’ts” of the product shoot; I was learning from them as well. It was an enlightening exchange that broadened my understanding of collaboration and teamwork.
Stepping back and seeing the bigger picture of what the industry expects from a photographer was an eye-opening experience. As an art director, my perspective shifted, and I became more attuned, open, adventurous, and refined in my approach to shooting. The experience was a two-way street; I not only gave knowledge but also absorbed valuable insights from my peers.
This journey has had a great impact on my perception of myself within the realm of photography. The experience of being an art director has encouraged me to be more attentive, open to new possibilities, and adventurous in my creative process. It has refined my shooting techniques and altered the way I approach photography. I can see myself as a capable individual with the potential to do more.
Becoming an art director has empowered me to step back and appreciate the art and science behind photography. It has transformed the way I view the medium and has become a catalyst for my personal and professional growth. As I reflect on this transformative semester, I am filled with gratitude for the challenges, the lessons learned, and the new perspective that will undoubtedly shape my journey moving forward.
Art Director: Sarah Mansfield
Creative Team: Ethan Wright, Abigail Akins, Sydney Sheriff, and Elly Gramm
Product: Target purse
