Low Impact photography (L.I.P)

‘Photography’ Low Impact Photography (L.I.P) 2023 plant based photography on Arches paper 841mm x 1189mm


My photographic practice, with its focus on slow, camera less, and experimental techniques, coupled with a material eco-consciousness message, holds significant potential as a metaphor for critical change on multiple levels—human, economic, and ecological.

  1. Eco-Activism and Environmental Impact: By developing a plant-based, light-sensitive emulsion that eliminates traditional silver mining and chemical-based plastics, I am directly addressing and challenging the environmental impact of conventional photography. This serves as a metaphor for the need to reconsider our relationship with technology and consumption in a world increasingly conscious of climate change and sustainability.

  2. Low Impact Photography (L.I.P) aligns with a growing awareness of the ecological costs associated with various industries. By advocating for a more sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to photography, my work contributes to a larger conversation about responsible practices in creative fields.

  3. Historical Influences and Marginalized Practices: Drawing inspiration from historical, marginalised photographic practices adds depth to the work. It pays homage to the roots of photography but also challenges the dominance of mainstream, high-impact methods. This can be seen as a metaphor for the importance of acknowledging and preserving cultural heritage while exploring alternative, sustainable pathways.

  4. Slow Photography in a Fast-Paced World: The deliberate choice of a slow and methodical process contrasts sharply with the rapid consumption of images in today's digital age. This deliberate slowing down can be interpreted as a metaphor for the need to reconsider our pace of life, consumption habits, and the impact of speed on both the environment and our well-being.

  5. Metaphor for Change: In a broader context, the work could be seen as a metaphor for the critical changes needed in various aspects of our society. By challenging the norms in photography, I am encouraging viewers to rethink their relationship with technology, materials, and the environment. This, in turn, can prompt broader conversations about sustainable practices, economic models, and cultural values.

In a wider context, could this ‘photography’ act as a metaphor for much-needed critical change to stimulate human, economic, and ecological changes to our cultural landscape?