39th Annual Student Research Conference
Faces Around Us
Ashish Bhatta
Prof. Priya Kambli, Faculty Mentor
Faces Around Us is a photographic series capturing members of the Truman State University community through large-format analog portraits paired with short personal stories. The project focuses on the familiar faces we see daily, students, faculty, and staff, and aim to create a deeper sense of connection by sharing both their appearance and their individuality.
Inspired by Philippe Halsman’s Jump series, which revealed authenticity through spontaneous motion, this project seeks honesty through conversation. The slow, deliberate nature of large-format film allows time to engage with each subject, ask open-ended questions, and build comfort before capturing their portrait.
Rooted in a commitment to traditional darkroom practices and material preservation, this work continues my exploration of giving new life to overlooked mediums. By combining storytelling with portraiture, the project emphasizes that each face carries a story worth knowing.
Keywords: Photography, Art, Film Photography
Topic(s):Art
Presentation Type: Oral Presentation
Session: -3
Location: SUB Georgian B
Time: 10:30