In Depth: Documenting Intimacy on Film

In this in-depth article we’re exploring intimacy and why we often have the urge to capture personal moments on film. Perhaps we should start the conversation by asking, what constitutes these kinds of images?

A deeply personal photo doesn’t necessarily have to involve anything controversial or sexually-explicit, although in many cases there is the baring of skin; a revelation of the self or of someone else. Of course there's also the fine line between capturing a vulnerable moment professionally (driven by aesthetic intentions), and those appealing to the stereotypical male gaze.

In this in depth article, we explore some of the reasons why many photographers choose to take and share photos that others may see as too private.

Against Dogmas and Taboos

There is the matter of taking images of ourselves or of others in an act of defiance against dogmas and taboos. Ever since its invention and more so when it became available to the masses, photography has been used as a medium for self-expression. This includes its use in protests against conservative societies where authorities actively suppress individuals' ability to express themselves.

In this regard, baring oneself in front of the camera might be one of the most potent forms of rebellion. It doesn't necessarily have to be a formal protest, although these are of course honorable on their own. It could also be simply a way for us as individuals to present ourselves through the art we create and share with people.

As we grow older and integrate ourselves in society, we often learn to hide aspects of ourselves which we deem unacceptable to others, or which we think could make them uncomfortable. But we don't necessarily lose those fragments of ourselves that we've hidden, and they have a tendency to show up in our creative work, where we can give ourselves freely to art without inhibition.

In some cases what we may think of as a vain or unrefined photo, may be an artist's way of finally accepting aspects of their physical body that they have been insecure about, perhaps brought on by societal standards of beauty. In this manner, posing in front of the camera can be seen as a method of freeing one's self.

In an interview with Lomography in 2017, artist Phoebe Barrett talked about the dichotomy between the brightness of her photographs of other people, and the dark quality in her self-portraits.

"I don’t know what this means, I think maybe that is how I see myself and this comes through more in my self-portraiture, I am more comfortable exploring the darker aspects of myself but in others, I see something very different." - Phoebe Barrett

Signs of Life

Personal photos often seem to have one thing in common, of something being revealed quietly, whether from the perspective of the artist or the viewer – in some cases both.

As artists we may sometimes feel like a photo says too much about us, hence capturing it or sharing it with other people could be considered as a brave act. And as viewers we may think of ourselves as unwelcome guests, looking at an image that should be closed off from our gaze.

But at the core of it, perhaps taking intimate or personal photos is a way to announce our existence. To say, simply and intensely, we were here, this is what we looked like and this is how we felt.

Film especially lends a certain charm and power to these personal photos. Being a format that requires patience, and a certain level of surrender to the unknown and unexpected, the results often turn out sentimental and memorable.

The grain, contrast, potential light leaks, or other factors which may otherwise be considered as "mistakes" make these photos appear more honest.

On being open about her vulnerabilities and taking intimate photos on film, Filipina artist Reese Galupe said this in an interview:

I love to capture the beauty I see in people, and with partners, be able to also capture the relationship and intimacy I have with them [. . .] I usually do this when both parties feel comfortable and ask if they're open to having their photographs being taken. Like I said, it's sort of like the world's been put on a brief halt, a freeze, and I feel this desire to capture the moment.

What are your thoughts on intimacy on film? Share them with us below!

written by sylvann on 2023-11-30 #culture #people #personal #intimacy #in-depth