Not every photo project I start is well structured and prepared.
Some of them come spontaneously and sometimes I start photographing without having a very tight plan of how it´s going to end. This is the kind of photography I enjoy most. Allthough I do have an idea of the central theme before starting, the outcome of the project mostly is open, flowing, flexible and I rely on the fact that various possible focal points will emerge in the end.
I must say that for myself I am defining the term photo project in the broadest possible sense. But all of them basicaly do have three steps in common.
1. Birth of an idea
This is what happens within. It cannot be forced. My best and most satisfying projects started with very vague ideas of little demand. Getting started is the hardest step. I am not taking down my ideas. Those I can keep in my mind are the good ones. I accept times without inspiration and activity.
2. Getting an intermediate overview
Getting an intermediate overview is an important step. Here are some images of a photo project I started a few months ago. It´s still not complete and not all of these images will be part of the project in the end. Here and there I print selected photos in order to get an overview of what I have, how it fits together and where I need to go.
3. Closing Projects
Closing a project is the final step. It´s oftenly woefully neglected by photographers. I am completing my mission by printing and sorting the images and finally paste them into a photo album. This is the point where a vision turns into reality. Real touchable pictures on photo paper. This is how it´s got to be. Here are some samples of my photo albums.
All photo prints are scans from negative - print on Epson Stylus Photo R2400. Used films are Kodak Tri-X 400 and Fuji Acros 100 in medium and small film format. Used photo papers are Hahnemühle FineArt Baryta and Ilford Gold Fibre Silk.