Dance © 2010 . All rights reserved.

A Mini Midwest Road Trip Tour 2010

Work is done for the summer and I have no formal studies to return to for the first time in 17 years. What better way to celebrate than to embark on a little personal road trip? As soon as work concluded Friday afternoon, I started driving north; my trunk, backseat, and passenger side completely filled with clothes, shoes, and accessories. Yes, I would say I was prepared for a week and half of photo shooting. ;)

Duluth, Minnesota – Part 1 of 5

A dock I had never seen before, despite the dozens of times I’ve been out to Park Point on Lake Superior! Twas a pretty brisk and windy day (I had to end up packing it in early, as my camera wasn’t faring too well against the sea spray assaulting it) but the dark and foggy atmosphere was perfect-o for the look I was trying to accomplish.  The blue onesie I’m wearing happened to be my mother’s high school gym uniform.

Madison, Wisconsin – Part 2 of 5

A collaboration between myself and an artist friend I discovered online via Flickr! I met Anton in Madison last week and this beautiful concept and photograph were born. There are few times when what I envision for the shoot pales in comparison to the end product. Well… Tada. This is one of those times. ;)

Angola, Indiana – Part 3 of 5

An outtake from my excursion into Indiana–the climax of my entire trip. I’ll blog more of what I did here later…. ;)

Champaign, Illinois – Part 4 of 5

During a casual afternoon walk through a sculpture park in Champaign, as soon as I saw this piece I knew it would be the perfect backdrop to my Illinois shoot. Back at the house, I opted for a 60′s mod vibe to compliment the geometric shadows and voila! Although I’m surprised I could keep it together–heat, curious passersby, and a cramped space (my abs were most definiately engaged) ensured that most of the shots were outtakes. But at least I got this one!  Also: thank you for your help, Slava. :)

Luana, Iowa – Part 5 of 5

This last piece of the series has special significance. When choosing a name for my grandmother, her mother looked to the Iowa map for guidance and inspiration. Here I am in her city, wearing one of her old dresses. This one’s for you, Lu.

About as raw as my style gets: unwashed hair pulled from a ponytail minutes before, no make-up, and no real edits other than tonal and grain changes. I’m intrigued by more natural styles and perhaps I shall do more sometime… although my penchant for COLORcolorcolor, crisp lines, and a polished look might throw a road block in that path.

So concludes the Midwest tour 2010! But be sure to stay tuned for an extended series of Indiana, lovelies. ;)

KH