Photography Final Series

 Top of the Food Chain by Abbie Fults

I have always been fascinated by the animal kingdom. Some of my favorite animals are the vibrant, strong species found in rainforests across the world. I love the connection between them and our own human species. Humans, like rainforest creatures, all have their own personalities, quirks, and flair. I chose to focus on the elements of humans that are similar to those rainforest animals in this series.

I rounded up several actor friends for this series. I assigned them each a specific animal that I thought they could properly embody. I designated them based on things like facial features, common expressions, and even style. I sent the models some inspiration photos as far as hair, costume, and makeup ideas go, but I wanted them to have creative freedom also. Collaborating with them and using their perceptions of these animals was very important to me. I wanted to see how they imagined their creature as well as execute my vision. Whether it be by using body language, physical features, or costumes, each person fully became their animal. 

Humans and animals have such a deep connection, and the similarities between them are abundant. Whether it be a tiger stalking her prey like she’s looking for a husband, a chameleon camouflaging into his surroundings like inner feelings not ready to be seen, or a butterfly gracefully fluttering around like a beautiful ballerina, animals aren’t so different from us as humans. This world is so interconnected, and I challenge you to walk away from this piece remembering to notice those entwining threads of humanity within animals and the untamed, wild side of humans.