Overall, I am pleased with the outcome of my photo book and my careful selection of final images used. The front and back cover of the photo book set the tone for what’s inside as they reflect my different artist inspirations Justine Kurland and Ramona Wang, but also correlate with each other. I think there is a clear theme and message which can be seen immediately, and I think I have successfully displayed some of my personal ideas and opinions in my images throughout the book, yet it also leaves room for interpretation from the viewer, as only some pages are cohesive.

There isn’t really a consistent flow throughout the book, which may be a drawback as it could be argued that the message is not clear due to the random order of the images. However, I think each page is engaging as there are clear connections between images and they are well composed and thoughtfully framed. The lighting and colour varies through the book, as I took my photoshoots in different locations and at different times of the day.

I successfully linked my personal imagery to Kurland, as the images inspired by her often have bright, natural lighting which enhances the mood and helps the viewer engage as they can see the adventure in the outdoors. This contrasts with other images from different shoots, particularly my second photoshoot where me and my subjects were outdoors in the dark. These images have lower exposure, less vibrancy and overall a more tense effect to them, which reflects the theme of youth through being rebellious, as well as reflecting bonds and community. I think all of my images have an emotional and intellectual impact on the viewer as they display my personal experiences with being a youthful female, which can help with engagement.

I am also happy with the overall design of the book as there is a variety of different placements and spacing to create a rhythm, even though the arrangement of the images is random. Another drawback of my book is that I did not consider adding in any text to any of the pages, which may take away some value due to the fact it may be harder for the viewer to interpret my message. I thoughtfully met my intentions as my personal study photo book reflects historical contexts of the Male Gaze, as well as traditional stereotypes of females and the behaviour we are expected to carry out. My images execute my ideas and beliefs on these contexts, and I have thoughtfully framed each image on every page to display my themes of femininity and youth through my own personal experiences.

Technical, visual, contextual & conceptual elements within my final photobook: