For my second year Photography module in Fine Art at Aberystwyth University, my project revolved around the beach and the Aberystwyth Surf Society. I chose to photograph the beach, specifically Aberystwyth’s beaches, as they’re extremely personal to me. I came to Aberystwyth University not only for the course and the facilities they provide in the school of art, but also because of its close proximity to the beach, as the beach has always fascinated me.
A big part of my ethos while photographing this project was the environment in which I was photographing. The sound of the waves crashing, children playing, the feel of the sand and rocks beneath me, the smell of the sea, the wind blowing my hair in my face, the cold of the seafront. All of these different environmental aspects influence the pictures I take and the outcome of my photographs. The presence of all these aspects is felt in each picture taken, even if you’re not there to experience it yourself. The beach engages all your senses in a calming manner and generates a powerful awareness of being present in the moment.
