PROJECT: Reimagine Generational Portraits in Analogue Film

Project Overview

Reimagine is an analogue‑film portrait project exploring three generations of my family. Using the Mamiya RB67 medium‑format film camera, I set out to capture how time shapes identity, relationships, and physical presence.

Shot entirely on black‑and‑white 120 film, the project emphasises stillness, honesty, and the beauty of analogue imperfection. Each portrait was photographed in my mother’s home, using a single window for natural light and the same chair to highlight generational height and presence.

This project formed the core of my Unit A1 HNC Photography assignment.

Artistic Intent

This work reimagines traditional family portraiture through:

  • Analogue techniques rather than digital ease

  • Slow, deliberate image making

  • Film noir influences

  • Shadow‑based composition inspired by Vivian Maier

  • Themes of legacy, matriarchy, and connection

I wanted each subject to be comfortable and natural, no forced smiles, no artificial posing, creating honest images that feel timeless.

Process & Development

1. Research & Influences

  • Vivian Maier: shadows, reflections, self‑portraits

  • Film noir: contrast, low‑key lighting Documentary photographers who work quietly and respectfully

  • Conversations with tutors that helped refine direction

3. Equipment & Techniques

  • Mamiya RB67 medium format film camera

  • 120 black‑and‑white film

  • Light meter app + manual adjustments

  • Epson V850 film scanner

  • Photoshop for dust removal, dodging, and burning

Final Portraits

Image Stacking

A digitally reimagined composite combining facial features from all three generations to explore:

  • Heritage

  • Shared traits

  • Identity over time

Behind the Scenes / Process Videos

  • Time-lapse of shooting

  • Darkroom processing

  • Cyanotype mixing & exposure

  • Gel plate trials

  • Booklet creation

Reimagined Outcomes

Cyanotype Series

Alternative blue-toned prints created through chemical hand-coating, UV exposure, and experimentation with:

  • Layering negatives

  • Adjusting exposure times

  • Citric acid & hydrogen peroxide baths

2. Test Shoots

I carried out multiple test sessions:

  • Initial indoor film noir shoot using a photography torch

  • Outdoor garden portraits (light too unpredictable)

  • Final indoor portraits in my mother’s home

  • Additional reimagined versions:

    • Cyanotypes

    • Gel‑plate prints

    • Image stacking (3 generation composite)

Gel Plate Prints

Textural analogue transfers created using:

  • Acrylic paint

  • Laser-printed negatives

  • Plate rolling & lift techniques

These versions push the images into a more experimental, handcrafted space.

Exhibition Installation

This work was displayed at Wicksteed Park Exhibition Centre.
The setup included:

  • Three main framed A2 analogue portraits

  • A printed booklet showcasing reimagined versions

  • A QR code linking to my website & behind‑the‑scenes videos

  • Clean layout with ample breathing space

  • Consideration for accessibility (including mobility access)

Artist Statement

This work revolves around the theme of generations. Vicky aimed to show the similarities and differences across three generations of her family by using a medium-format film camera. The photographs were taken inside her mother’s house, utilising the familiarity of home and the natural light from a single window. A familiar chair was used to visualise the height differences between the subjects. The family are not only central to Vicky’s life but also crucial in shaping who she has become. Vicky is inspired by a picture of her mother from when she was pregnant, a style she wanted to reimagine through analogue processes.

Vicky has discovered a love for analogue photography, particularly medium format film.  It has enabled her to reimagine approaches to photography through new processes and techniques associated with analogue.

Using a larger format, particularly the Mamiya 6x7, has enabled a slower pace of work, given the more considered approach required by the functionality and processes involved in its operation.