The little lamp that could
The series of images that led to all my series of images.
The little lamp series turns 19.
This started out as a lark when Kara grabbed my floor lamp at home and wanted to pose with it. It became a popular image on the old modelling sites, and when I moved into my first studio it came with me, not to use as a prop but for low ambient light since I was constantly tripping over cords and stands. It still happened, of course. Do all photographers trip as much as I do? Eventually people noticed the lamp and asked if they could pose with it. I was like, "Nah, it's already been done by Kara, and I love that image."
Kara and the Little Lamp. Basement Studio
Eventually, after a few people requested it, I had the brilliant idea of doing a series. Okay, yeah... I mean anyone else would have seen this as an opportunity but I'm a bit thick sometimes.
Looking back at the metadata, Rachel was likely the first participant. She was also the last participant in my Torso series, the last series I did when I let the lease go in 2019.
Rachel – first Little Lamp images for the Series.
Eventually, several people came forward to do the series. Some were people I had previously worked with, some were friends, some became friends.
Jess, Tam, and Beatrix Mae
Others I had never met before and would not see again.
And some I had just met became friends.
Marla and Aenux
One came back for more.
Jess
Some I'd work with again once or twice or meet at events.
The little lamp is still around and still functional, and I'm debating if this is a thing I'd want to revisit. It was so much fun and I love doing image series and getting different people involved. It's such a unique way to see the personalities and character of people come through.
