Modern Hero Project
As part of a Fashion Editorial Module at the University, we explored working in print and multimedia by producing a range of editorial outputs. For this project, I had to select a person I considered a modern-day hero and produce a 600-word feature, three photoshoots and an online multimedia article.
Photo Above by Dogs Trust
As part of a live brief based on the topics of heroes, I dedicated my project to Alexa's Animal Rescue, situated in the county of Northumberland. I set out to showcase the charities relentless dedication to the dogs in their care. After talking to the committed staff, one issue became apparent, the fear of how lockdown will affect rescues. Lack of funding and the increased demand for puppies, left many rescuers fearing what will happen once lockdown ends.
Lockdown has left many desperate for animal companionship to help cope during these exceptional times. This demand continues to rise and may have devastating consequences. Google searches for 'buy a puppy' have increased by 120% following the announcement of the UK-wide lockdown on March 23rd.
For this project, I needed to produce three sets of imagery, an online publication and a print publication. For the online feature, I would want to address the ‘puppy for lockdown’ trend that is occurring, to utilise search engine optimisation. Whereas, for the print copy I would want to talk about the benefits of owning a dog, specifically mentioning Alexa's animal rescue, Northumberland local dog rescue. This would create two interesting angles on one topic and more for the readers to digest, as we know people can't get enough of man's best friend.
I had the opportunity to interview Sue Hamblett, the on-site kennel manager at Alexas Animal Rescue. She lives surrounded by up to 50 dogs. Despite this, she adores her job and preaches the benefits of owning a dog. Equally, I talked to some Northumbria locals that have adopted dogs from Sue. Collecting quotes and photos of their dogs, to add another good section for the readers, as who doesn't like a cute dog picture and heartwarming stories.
One major challenge about this project was the current Uk lockdown that left me unable to visit the rescue to capture the amazing work they do. Taking photos and being behind a camera is where I do my best work but lockdown left me unable to do this.
To begin overcoming this issue, I researched how other photographers were still working during the lockdown. I also explored other ways people produce imagery without taking photos. From this research, I saw many photographers were finding alternative models, such as themself or pets. Some people were creative collages of images, taking old photos and giving them new meanings.
In the end, I produced three sets of images that explored my topic without leaving the house. I used my dog as a model and explored creating digital collages. I ended up getting my highest mark on this project and some great feedback.
This challenge showed me that working outside your comfort zone can prompt you to try something new and find new things you didn't know you would be good at. It reminds me that there is always room to learn new things and there is never one way to overcome a task.
Online and print publication for this project linked below: