Stender Photography Portfolio

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2020-2022

Andrew Stender University of Kansas

KU ArcD

Andrew Stender

Works from 2020 to Present 35mm Color Film

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This portfolio focuses on my photography, specifically on my works produced using 35mm film. All of the works are shot on a Canon AE-1 Program, using primarily Kodak Portra 400 35mm color film. I adore the analog nature of film photography. The manual loading and unloading of the film, the mechanical action of the shutter release, the precise calibration of a lens focal length. All of these actions combine to create a moment which exists exactly before the photo is taken, a moment in which time itself is frozen for eternity in some small form. I like to think of my photography in this way, capturing moments of my life rather than just pictures.

Shooting on film also brings with it an implied sense of finality. When shooting with a film camera, each shot becomes somehow more important than with a digital camera or phone. The process is slower and the margin for error is much higher, and so there is often only one chance to take the perfect photo. This inherent risk elevates the moments that are captured perfectly, and brings a new appreciation to the thought that went into creating them.

I find film photography to be more beautiful for its little imperfections. The slight grain or tiny mark in a photo brings out its humanity. Like 35mm film, humanity is not perfect, but it is due to these blemishes that the beauty in it shines brighter. It’s impossible to have a rainbow without a little rain.

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