MELANIE HINDS – FUN AND GAMES

Brisbane, QLD
I am a Meanjin-based photographer whose practice spans from product and branding to events and personal projects. I use an editorial aesthetic in delivering my documentary style images to create a unique interpretation of the medium.

In this shoot, I wanted to frame the message of ceramicist Bonnie Hislop’s trophy ‘Fun and Games’ as one of exhaustion and persistence. Two and a half years since the world turned upside down, the fight to keep showing up while remaining positive is still strong. This is true of what I've observed, especially in a social-media sense, particularly for those in the arts and small business. The sentiment I keep seeing being expressed however, (and I feel too) is that we're tired. And so I give you the apathetic seaside pin-up, giving it her all, yet ready for a nap.

I chose natural light in the middle of the day for a harsh sun, rather than the soft beauty of sunrise or sunset. I intentionally chose not to edit the wet patch on the swimmer's bottoms. I want the image to feel more relatable to the female audience that is somehow still trying to feel perfect in every photo.

melaniejanephotography.com.au
instagram.com/withthepeaches        
instagram.com/meldoesphoto