Final: Laundromat Portraits

Though I cannot say these are my best images of the semester, I can say that this project pushed me much further than any of the prior assignments. Taking pictures of strangers in laundromats was very, very outside of my comfort zone, yet it was the only idea that really "stuck" with me to do for the final.

Laundromats are interesting places. In a way, it's a community melting pot where you'll find people from all walks of life. However, it being laundry day it's often difficult to distinguish "who" people really are from how their appearance is at the laundromat. I saw students immersed in their books, mothers teaching their children, old couples sitting silently, and so many other dynamics at the laundromats in Provo.

This project has made me more keen on watching and observing the people around me. Even more, it has opened my eyes to the real confidence and bravery a photographer must have to approach strangers for the task of taking a picture. This was very difficult for me and I am proud of these images simply because I found the courage to take them.

8. Habitat

For my "cause" assignment, I photographed a construction site of Habitat for Humanity. I remember being involved with this organization when I was in high school and even working on a build site once. Habitat for Humanity is one of the most recognized organizations for providing homes for families in need.

Their was a great feeling of camaraderie and fellowship among the men working on this build site in Lindon, Utah. I learned that there are companies in Utah who help to sponsor Habitat for Humanity and will allow their employees an absence from work to participate in a build. I photographed some of the men who were there from TD Ameritrade, the project they were working on and the tools they used.