The document provides guidance for a self-portrait photography project at City College Norwich. Students are instructed to create a self-portrait using a camera's self-timer in order to photograph themselves. They are told to think about how others see them and whether their portrait accurately or inaccurately represents themselves. Examples are given of both literal, technical self-portraits and more conceptual self-portrait styles to inspire students' work, which should be supported by research, experimentation, and development of their ideas.

1. City College Norwich Photography A level
Self-portrait Project.
A self-portrait can often be one of the most challenging tasks a photographer sets
themselves. You will have to take control of the camera either by using a remote lead or the
cameras in built self timer. This means you will not be connecting or communicating directly
to a photographer but the camera it-self. To take a portrait of someone else is relatively
simple- you have a clear idea of their character, attitude and personality, therefore are able
to work out the best way to represent them. However creating a meaningful portrait of
yourself requires an understanding of you- is this the ‘you’ that others see? Have you tried
to show what isn’t there? Have you been too cruel or too kind to yourself?
Some photographers take a very straightforward approach to portraiture whilst others like
to think of portraiture as a concept.
Your task is to create a finished piece that is a self-portrait- an image of you.
You must have supporting work that shows research, experimentation, development and a
realisation of your ideas.
Look at the ways in which the following photographers have approached portraiture to give
you inspiration:
Literal, Technical Portraiture:
David Hockney –My Mother
Chuck Close -Self Portarit
Gary Schneider- Heads
Irving Penn- In a cracked mirror, turning head self portrait
Conceptual Portraiture:
Miyako Ishiuchi - Mother's
John Coplans- Hands
Gareth Mcconnell - bed
Sophie Calle- Hotel