Meaningful photography
Solo project: fall 2016 – ongoing

Being photographed

The moment you notice a camera is pointing in your direction can be quite tense, unstable and sometimes a little threatening. A camera can make you feel proud but also insecure, powerless and uncomfortable. Through design interventions I explore possible design directions that make this moment more safe and meaningful.

I want people who are being photographed at company events to feel safe
VIP

The vision in product design method helps the designer envision an desirable effect by for example learning from a similar but more desirable situation. Another situation that can make you feel mentally unsafe is giving a speech. The moment asks for performance and there is the possibility of failure. Speaking in front of friends is different, the feeling is safer because of multiple inspiring reasons: The audience is friendly and trusted.  During a speech for relatives there is also a lot of conformation like: smiles, attention, nodding. These qualities serve as inspiration on the road towards a concept that creates a safe photography environment.

Fail fast

Design for research is very useful for generating more insights and validating concept directions. I tested over 15 quick prototypes like a Polaroid picture wall, friendly business card, mirror camera and live camera footage. These designs showed the importance for safety in this context of professionalism, good intentions, conformation, control and transparency.