Documentary Project

In our present economy, so many people have been forced to change the way they live. Even the most mundane things can no longer be overlooked. Families who might have enjoyed luxuries in recent years have turned to secondhand clothing stores and even food shelters. I plan to photograph families who have made drastic changes in their lives in order to survive in a struggling economy.

What sparked my interest in documenting this was listening to families speak with one another at the Amherst Family Center. I work there weekly and I overhear at least two or three conversations each week about money issues and the stress it is causing. I overheard one mother say, "I go to the Survival Center now with the kids sometimes for lunch, it's not so bad once you get over the fact that you're actually there." Another mother spoke of Food Not Bombs, an organization in Amherst that collects food goods for the poor. It's astonishing that families have turned to services that were created for homeless people.

I plan to photograph the very real struggles families are dealing with, and the changes they have made. Whether it be having to give up one car, buying generic brand groceries, or even something as drastic as seeking help from the Survival Center, this issue is relatable to almost everyone who has to count every penny nowadays.

Some documentaries I found:

http://blogs.denverpost.com/captured/2009/12/31/childhood-poverty-in-colorado/

http://www.american-pictures.com/english/reviews/media.htm

My photos will be different as they will not focus on children, but the changes families have had to make in this economy. However, I think my photos will encompass the general idea that these photos are trying to get across, that we think of the U.S. as a land of prosperity when what really exists in some places is extreme poverty.

I have contacted two families from my job who have agreed to let me photograph them. The first is Erika Loper and the second is Sarah, a single mother of two young children.

A Day in the Life...

This sure isn't your average university's Republican Club.

Sure, everyone has student organizations, but Hampshire College likes to spice things up a bit.

Burlesque for All, a student group created just over a year ago, is comprised of members who create a wide variety of sexual performances for the viewing pleasure of Hampshire's campus.

"Last year was a trial run, but our first show had such an amazing reaction that we kept going with it," said Adrienne DiMarco, a junior and signer for B.F.A.

The group is one that promotes artistic expression, and emphasizes anti-discrimination and unity. Anyone can join, but Electric Velvet Review, a subgroup within B.F.A. that takes on more challenging performances, requires auditions.

Burlesque for All incorporates dancing, sexuality, acting, and sometimes, wild props.

"I've used food before," says Adrienne with a grin.

While the group encourages getting as naked and scandalous as you please, members realize that they can only push the boundaries so far.

"Some performances portray social roles, and sexuality," said Kenyatta McKenzie, a newer member of the group. "So we have to be socially conscious."

"We wanted to do a belly dancing piece last year, but someone informed us it was too sexual, and Middle Easterns would be offended," adds Adrienne. "Sometimes, we have to sensor ourselves."

Still, the mood is joyous on a cold evening in Franklin Patterson Hall as members of Burlesque for All reunite for the first time this semester. In between conversation and hugs, the five members strip down to their skivvies.

"We have so many ideas for this year!" Adrienne announces enthusiastically, going on to discuss masturbation appreciation, self-love, and Valentines Day.

Here's to you, Burlesque for All, for a sexy, scantily clad semester.

Five members of Burlesque for All look seductive for their first meeting of the trimester in Hampshire College's Franklin Patterson Hall.

After struggling to hook herself into a scandalous corset, Adrienne sits down to apply some makeup. As everyone admires her speed and precision, she shrugs it off. "This is from years and years of dance and drama."

Adrienne gives Kenyatta a makeover and manages to correct a lip gloss explosion. "I want bright and sparkly," he requests.

Adrienne adjusts the straps on a pair of sexy heels before positioning herself in a sultry manner on one of the desks.

Kenyatta McKenzie, a third year transfer student from New York, adjusting an elaborate costume complete with a vibrant wreath skirt. "It's a celebration of the person," boasts Mckenzie of Burlesque for All.

Jillian as a dark, mysterious temptress. "We love being able to do fun and sexy," she said.

Adrienne plants a colorful kiss on Jillian's shoulder, sparking a debate about what the group's logo should be. "Purple lips, that'd be hot!" remarks Jillian.

Day In The Life Project

Adrienne from Hampshire's student group Burlesque For All replied to my email yesterday. She said that because Hampshire class just got started, the group hasn't met yet this semester but she really likes the idea of the assignment and is going to try to get the group together in the next few days to do an old number for me. Sounds good to me! :)

Hey everyone, this is my first post for my advanced Photojournalism course at UMASS. I'm excited for future projects! Here are a few randoms from work I've done in the past...

Young woman sipping from a steaming mug at Bart's Café in Amherst Center.

View of Boston and the ocean from a neighbor's backyard by night.

My hamster, Pumpkin. RIP :(

My sister posing against a fence in our backyard...early spring.