It is a way to escape from reality. I like to challenge myself at a new level. As I grew up, I always wanted to be in fantasy movies such as Alice in Wonderland or Peter Pan. I used my photography to get me in other worlds. I like self-portraits as a way to be in a picture and let me have a daydream.
When did you first learn this technique?
I was in college which was four years ago. I am mostly self-taught. I use google/youtube to learn tools and play with my camera. My best advice is play with your camera all of the time to find your talent. I realized I loved this topic because I’d like to challenge myself and I’d say my dream came true to be part of the fairy tales and surreal worlds.
What are the tips you would share with anyone trying to achieve this technique?
A tripod is the most important thing for this technique. You can do any self-portrait with a tripod. Second, be patient because you will fail before you get successful. Keep trying. Third, don’t limit yourself. Challenge yourself. You will never know until you try it. Fourth, be confident in yourself while doing self-portraits and know what you want. Fifth, take your time on editing. I suggest you leave the photo after you edit for one or two days before posting because sometimes a new day could bring something different that you could change or add in a picture. Sometimes, your perspective will change or you might have a better idea. Lastly, while doing self-portraits, how can you know how to stand in the right place? Go look through the camera first and find a spot you want to stand, you could put a small object on the spot so when the camera is ready, you will know where you suppose to stand.
What were the challenges for you in the beginning?
In the beginning, I had no remote for a self-portrait. Which means I had to go back and forth clicking my camera while doing a self-portrait. At least, it gave me some exercise! Sometimes, it would be hard when I took the self-portrait and I did not know if I was standing in the right place. I would have to check every time and possibly take multiple shots. The tip below can help you to know where to stand.
About the photographer:
Samantha Liddick is a passionate photographer and graphic designer. She is deaf and uses American Sign Language. She graduated from Gallaudet University with two bachelors: Photography and Graphic Design. Samantha won several photography awards and has experience in showing her artworks in exhibitions.
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