This project focuses on developing my visual research skills to support my studio-based portrait and still-life photography. Throughout the module, I used my visual research journal to plan, analyse, and refine my ideas—something I previously struggled with but have now found essential to improving my workflow and final outcomes.

For my portrait piece, I researched Impressionist artists, particularly Edgar Degas, whose work I have admired for years. I was drawn to his use of movement and his connection to early photographic techniques. After exploring several options, I chose to recreate Marguerite Degas because of its simplicity, elegance, and subtle detail. I studied close-up elements—such as the headpiece, background, and facial shadows—to guide my studio planning.

For my still life, I explored more realistic painters including Jelaine Faunce, but ultimately selected Paul Cézanne’s Pyramid of Skulls. The structure, detail, and atmosphere of the piece offered a strong visual challenge and direction for my shoot. I gathered reference images, sourced props, and prepared detailed notes on composition and lighting to support my studio session.

Overall, this project strengthened my ability to research, analyse, and visually plan, resulting in clearer creative direction and more confident work in the studio.