Photograph by Scott Steffy, 2013
Introduction
I have an idea for a studio photo series which would be different than anything I’ve done before, involving taking images of (LOTS OF OTHER) people, who have given birth. I’m curious if my mother friends would be interested in being a part of realizing it.
Synopsis
Here are the particulars as I’ve brainstormed them thus far, with the concept and nuances still developing:
I’d like to create a series of images depicting the objectification of the area of the body most visually effected by your pregnancy, somewhat similar to this one.
As part of the image creation, I would like to interview you regarding the first thought that went through your mind when you awoke that first day, with a baby. By exploring this moment in your past we will agree upon a short phrase, in your words, to either paint on your body or caption in some other fashion (I have yet to decide), before shooting your image.
This project will include nudity; always tasteful, often implied. Depending on your situation, it may not be required that you be naked during the shoot, however it is my goal to not have any clothing showing in the pictures to express the vulnerability and rawness of the psychological component of the work. Similarly, it is unlikely that your face or identifying features will be present in the photographs.
Examples of my photographic work can be found at http://neevita.net/category/visual-art/photography/.
Scope of the project
Birthrights is a personal pet for now, I will not be paying models, who will be required to sign a model release and provide a copy of their photo identification.
If the concept proves successful my intention is to show the work in exhibitions, and the work may be submitted to the Seattle Erotic Art Festival. I also consider the potential of creating a coffee table book or other forms of media if the scope of the project warrants it.
Available Shoot dates
I will be shooting for this project in my Pioneer Square studio in Seattle, WA. I currently have the following dates open:
Noon, Saturday February 15th
Noon, Saturday February 22nd
FAQ
Q: How long will my photoshoot and interview take?
A: About an hour, give or take.
Q: I am [insert age here] and it’s been [insert years here] since I gave birth; Would you want me for your project?
A: Yes.
Q: Should I wear makeup to the shoot?
A: Not required, but if you’re more comfortable in it, by all means. I will not be using MUA for this project.
Q: I’ve had multiple children. Are you interested in my participation?
A: Yes, though we will focus on the experience of your giving birth to your first child.
Q: My body isn’t really all that obviously different from before now that I’ve given birth; Do you want me for your project?
A: Maybe. The idea here is to express transition in both visual and emotional/mental ways that are abstractly relatable and thought provoking, hence the objectification of your body and the distillation of your waking experience to a few choice words. If your perception of part of your body changed significantly due to having been pregnant/given birth, it may qualify, even if physically there isn’t much of a visual difference.
Submit to participate
If you’re interested in participating in this project please email courtnee@neevita.net with the following:
[contact-form][contact-field label=’Name’ type=’name’ required=’1’/][contact-field label=’Email’ type=’email’ required=’1’/][contact-field label=’Phone number’ type=’text’ required=’1’/][contact-field label=’Age (Must be over 18)’ type=’text’ required=’1’/][contact-field label=’Preferred shooting day’ type=’select’ options=’Jan 11 2014,Jan 18 2014,Jan 25 2014’/][contact-field label=’Body area I will likely be shooting’ type=’text’ required=’1’/][/contact-form]