I enjoyed last week’s project so much and learned so much from it that I have a ton of things to say about it. I am going to try and keep this concise and to the point, otherwise I could probably go on all day.

The first thing I need to mention is that I am not a programmer in any type of code. I have always enjoyed tinkering like a programmer and hacking my way through a new language, although I could never do it for a living (so much respect for programmers). Last week, working with Apple’s Automator & Adobe Photoshop actions made me realize the strength and benefits that these two things could bring to many aspects of my daily routine. By making small actions for things I often repeat I could save a fair amount of time in the end, although dedication of time is needed up front.

Second, I love Tumblr. For a project such as this one where I didn’t have the time to put together something custom, Tumblr offered a solution that provided most of what I needed. Yes, there are a few quirks with Tumblr that I needed to live with, but it’s a free service so I can’t ask for much more. Overall Tumblr offered a simple yet effect way to display and share all of the Mug Shots.

Next are the portraits themselves. This was the most rewarding part of the project, seeing people have so much fun and enjoying getting their pictures taken, even the people that typically won’t be found in front of the camera found themselves there. I think having the TV there with images playing throughout the evening really helped.

More specifically and technically here are the things I took away:

• I need to learn how to hold my camera level
• If lines are put on the wall make sure they are straight
• When confined to a small space (with no option of where to move) something always must give
• I need to have a reflector to help fill one side of the portrait
• I need to find someway to light backgrounds
• Put less time into things I am not paid for Na, it was worth it

Most of all what I took away was the process of taking portraits. Although it may be “boring” or “typical” I liked the photo booth idea because all expectations are known (especially with the TV showing all of the images). This is different than other portrait session as it removed many variables from the equation.

I think this could be something I would like to continue with as it allows me to connect with people and do photography at the same time in a relatively relaxed environment.