Student showcase: Michelle Carmona

Interviewed by John Warner

What inspired your mythology-based series?

My mythology series was based on Greek myths I learned as a child, mainly from a sudden and acute interest in the “Percy Jackson” books. What attracted me to the series was how it provided mysterious answers of the world that somehow made sense. I guess that’s why we’re all so interested in myths and faith — those things still unknown to man that can be explained by the stories passed down through generations. Myths not only shaped my perspective of the world but fueled my obsession with gladiators and Renaissance art.

How does the Renaissance apply to your work?

Renaissance is inspired by Roman and Greek myths. You can’t look at a Renaissance piece and not be brought back to Greek and Roman myths. But the question is how? Renaissance art plays a lot off of Christianity and secular art while implementing stories, themes and poses based on mythology. One aspect I’m heavily influenced by is Rembrandt lighting. This is a lighting style that a modern artist, Chris Knights (@chrisknightphoto), brings onto his sets. It’s typically not a common light style for the modern era and I wanted to adapt that with my own unique touch. That unique touch can be found in the photos with the gilded finger, referring to the story of King Midas. The stills featuring the gilded apples refer to the trials of Hercules and the stills featuring the vase refer to the story of Persephone and Hades.

What is your creative process like per shoot?

My creative process may seem a bit backward to others. I don’t normally have a starting point on what I do. I keep this notebook with concept thoughts, lighting ideas, sketches of compositions and clothing choices. Once I do start to bring an idea to life during the shoot, I spend time building my moodboard, color palette and source materials as well as searching for the perfect model. It is a trial-and-error process that creates the foundational tools necessary to capture the perfect images.

How do you think being at SCAD has pushed your abilities?

SCAD provided me with access to a plentiful amount of resources to accomplish what I desire. Forrest McMullen, a photo professor, was a big influence here at SCAD for me with his critiques. I think without him, it’d be difficult for me to push and challenge myself to get better.