Looking at myself
A gentle, screen-free photography project exploring identity, confidence and self-expression
How might a young person begin to see themselves more kindly, more creatively and with greater confidence?
Looking at Myself is a thoughtful one-to-one analogue photography workshop designed to help young people explore identity, self-expression and self-confidence through a slower, more reflective creative process.
Using a 35mm analogue camera, participants create a small series of self-portraits and/or still-life photographs without the use of screens or digital technology. Guided with care and sensitivity, they are encouraged to slow down, make thoughtful creative choices and engage with image-making in a calm, personal and meaningful way.
13 to 18 years old
1 hour. 2-3 sessions
Weekends
Photography
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Still-life
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Self-Portrait
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Photography - Still-life - Self-Portrait -
A 1:1 analogue photography project for young people
Looking at Myself offers a rare kind of creative experience: one that is personal, screen-free and carefully held.
In a one-to-one setting, participants are supported to explore ideas of identity, mood, memory, personality and self-expression through analogue photography. Some may feel drawn to self-portraiture, while others may prefer to begin more indirectly through still-life images of meaningful objects, personal details, clothing, textures or symbolic arrangements.
This flexibility allows the process to feel safe, accessible and respectful of each young person’s comfort level. The workshop meets them where they are and supports them in building confidence step by step.
a SLOW, SCREEN - FREE CREATIVE EXPERIENCE to see yourself differently
Young people today are surrounded by fast, polished, digital images and constant comparison. This project offers something very different.
Through analogue photography, there is no instant playback, no filter, no pressure to curate an image for others. Instead, the process invites care, patience and presence. Each photograph is made more thoughtfully. Each decision carries meaning.
This slower pace can feel deeply refreshing. It creates space not only for creativity, but for reflection. It encourages young people to look inward as well as outward and to engage with image-making as a process of discovery rather than judgement.
A kinder self-view
At the heart of this project is the idea that photography can be more than a technical skill. It can also be a gentle way of exploring self-image, confidence and identity.
Participants are encouraged to approach themselves with curiosity rather than criticism; noticing gesture, mood, light, symbolism and presence, rather than focusing on perfection. For some, this may be the first time they have experienced photography in a way that feels calm, personal and affirming rather than performative.
That is what makes the project so valuable. It offers not only creative development, but also a more thoughtful and compassionate way of seeing.
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Slows children down.
Encourages care and patience.
Removes distraction and instant judgement.
Builds observation and creative confidence.
Produces meaningful, tangible outcomes.
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Camera handling.
Framing & composition.
Observational photography.
Editing & sequencing.
Visual storytelling.
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Participants will:
Create a small series of analogue self-portraits/still-life photographs.
Gain confidence and self-awareness.
Develop practical photography skills.
Experience creative success in a supportive environment.
aims & benefits
Creative
Introduction to analogue photography in a calm, accessible format.
Greater confidence in composition, framing and visual decision-making.
Exploration of light, form, atmosphere and symbolism.
Experience creating a personal series of meaningful images.
A stronger sense of artistic voice and self-expression.
Personal
Increased confidence through supported one-to-one creative exploration.
A more reflective and compassionate approach to self-image.
Opportunity to express identity in a non-verbal, creative way.
Development of patience, focus and thoughtful observation.
Well-being
A calm, screen-free space away from pressure and overstimulation.
Support for emotional wellbeing through creativity and reflection.
A slower, more mindful experience that encourages presence and self-awareness.
A sense of pride in producing something personal and real.
Analogue Camera
Tripod
LED Lighting
Backgrounds (optional)
Film or Polaroid
Sketchbook
materials
Provided by the artist.
ESTIMATED COST
£350 for 3 sessions.
Get started today
About the Project Leader
David
Artist, Photographer & Arts Educator
David is an artist, photographer and senior arts educator with over 25 years of professional creative practice and extensive experience in higher education.
He is a faculty member in the Cultural and Creative Industries Department at Barking & Dagenham College and Programme Leader at the University of East London, School of Arts and Digital Industries. David holds a BA (Hons) in Photography and a Certificate in Education and has been teaching Photography, Art and Design since 2008.
Alongside his academic career, David has worked as an art photographer and publisher since 1997, bringing real-world creative industry insight into his teaching. He is fully Enhanced DBS certified and known for his calm, thoughtful approach to nurturing creativity, critical thinking and visual literacy in young people.