After chatting with Chris and Zach I knew which colors I wanted to focus on in their portraits and I knew that I didn’t want to use either of their faces as I wanted to capture more of their personalities. Initially I was going to use their glasses and shoes, respectively, but I didn’t think there was enough intense color in either for such driven individuals. I chose to go back and use photos of graffiti I had taken previously because I think it represents their artistic side, which wasn’t something I found with the glasses and sneakers.

Color Photo Chris

Chris spoke about how seeing lasers in high school sparked his love of physics and how his favorite color is red, which I think is well represented by the bright beams through the face. The complex patterns remind me of topographic maps and paired with the planet, I remember how dedicated Chris is to traveling the work- he even has a tattoo commemorating the places he’s been. The realistic planet and abstract personal form complements Chris’ interest in science and art and how he combines both in his personality.

Color Photo Zach

Zach spoke of his passion for helping others which led him to pursue nursing- I’ve always associated care and healing with birds which is the main reason I feel this photo represents him. Additionally, the clean lines of the feathers and intertwining ribbons behind the bird reminded me of the patterns in the background of his still life project. On the other hand, it was easy to tell that Zach was outgoing once you got to know him and he told us he likes bright colors so I think the bursts of orange and yellow behind the bird and in the writing on the right represent this well.