1. What do you notice first about this image?

I notice the bright yellow background and how the lighting makes the person’s shadow stand out.

2. What do you think the subject is communicating about her identity?

She seems confident and relaxed, maybe showing pride in who she is.

3. What compositional and photographic elements do you notice, and why?

• Framing: She’s centered but leaning, which adds personality.

• Position: Her tilted head and closed eyes make her look peaceful.

• Lighting: The warm light creates a calm, soft feeling.

• Background: The plain yellow background helps focus on her expression and shirt.

4. What do you think the photographer is trying to show or explain?

They might be showing comfort in identity and self-expression.

5. Do you think there are unintentional messages in this photograph?

Maybe the shadow could show another side of her or hidden parts of identity.

6. Does anything change when you know a bit more about the photographers and their intentions?

Yes, it helps understand that they wanted to explore identity and self-expression through the photo.

Explore Further:

1. What do you notice first about this image?

I notice the woman’s calm expression and the black-and-white tone of the photo.

2. What do you think the photograph is communicating about the subject’s identity?

It seems to show her connection to her family and how she sees herself as part of their story.

3. What compositional and photographic elements do you notice, and why?

• Framing: The family photos above her frame her identity through her parents.

• Position: She’s placed under them, which could show respect or connection.

• Clothing: Her simple clothes keep the focus on her expression.

• Lighting: Soft lighting makes the mood feel peaceful and reflective.

4. How do you read the subject’s expression?

She looks thoughtful, almost like she’s reflecting on her past or her parents.

5. Does anything change when you learn the title of the photograph?

Yes, knowing it’s a self-portrait makes it more personal,it’s about her exploring who she is.

6. What hypotheses do you draw about the photographer’s background and identity?

She values family and heritage and uses photography to understand her identity and where she comes from.

Discussing and Mapping Identity:

1. What do you feel are significant things to know about your own background and identity?

I think my background, family, and the way I grew up all make me who I am. They’ve taught me what’s important and shaped how I see things.

2. Are some things labels that others put on you?

Yeah, for sure. People sometimes assume things about me before they really know me.

3. Are some aspects fixed while others evolve over time?

Some parts of me stay the same, like where I come from or my values. But other things, like my interests and how I express myself, change as I get older.

4. Do any of these aspects depend on context?

Yeah, I act a little different depending on who I’m around. I think everyone does that a bit.

5. Is how you see yourself different from how you think the world sees you?

Yeah, definitely. I feel like people only see a small part of who I am, but I know there’s more to me inside.

1. What’s one thing that instantly improves your mood?

Honestly, going to concerts with you always fixes my mood. The second the music starts and the crowd gets loud, everything I was stressed about just disappears. It’s like our brains sync up and we’re both just happy to be there.

2. What’s something you’re looking forward to this year?

I’m really looking forward to Camp Flog Gnaw this year. I know how much you love it, Emily, and your excitement rubs off on me. I can already imagine us running around trying to catch every set and then complaining about how tired we are afterward.

3. What’s your favorite way to spend a weekend?

My favorite kind of weekend is when we go to a concert and then spend the next day recovering, scrolling through our videos, and laughing at how loud we were singing. It just feels easy and fun, and it’s honestly the best way to unwind.

4. What’s something you and your best friend bond over?

One of the biggest things we bond over is concerts. We get excited about the same artists, we plan outfits like it’s an event, and we always end up having the best time. It’s something that makes our friendship feel even stronger.