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.