Post 4: Message/Mission (Sneaker photography)

 

Mathew Zurita

ART-398-2381

Professor. Cacoilo

New Jersey City University

February 14, 2025

Message and Mission: Sneaker photography

                A project that I'm currently working on and that I've shown for the Junior review is my sneaker photography project. I chose to do sneaker photography for not only to practice my product photography for the future, which is my main focus, but to also show that sneakers can be considered as an art form. Whether sneakers are considered art is a matter of debate, but they are definitely part of popular culture and design. They are part of a cultural movement and have been used by artists too. The reason I believe sneakers are considered to be art because they are a cultural icon that influence fashion, lifestyle, and self-expression. Artists collaborate with sneaker brands to create sneakers that are considered art. Rare and limited-edition sneakers are exhibited in museums, similar to limited edition artist prints. Sneakers are a form of self-expression and a part of a culture that includes graffiti, DJ'ing, and breakdancing. Wearing Jordan sneakers, specifically, often makes people feel a mix of nostalgia, confidence, style, and a connection to basketball history due to the iconic status of the famous basketball player, Michael Jordan, and the brand's legacy, essentially feeling like they're wearing a piece of sporting culture on their feet; for many, it can also be a way to express their individuality and relive childhood memories.

                For this project to work, I've placed my sneakers in these different locations and making it feel like I'm promoting them. I believe that landscapes and the outside nature can make the shoe pop out. However, even though it looks good on the photo and the color's are popping out, it could be better. In order for this project to become even better, I feel like a model could make this project fit perfectly. The model will involve me mostly since I'm the one who has many variety of sneakers. Some photo shots are focus on my feet, and most photo shots shows my entire body with the shoe and doing some different poses. As for the location, I'm planning to shoot this project at the studio lightning room. I can use different backgrounds, different lightning, and include variety of props if necessary. Seeing my work may not help people physically or emotionally, but what I can say is that the Air Jordan brand has helped the world in many ways, including through charitable donations, cultural impact, and the promotion of sportsmanship. For example, rare Air Jordans have benefited organizations like the Portland Rescue Mission. The success of Air Jordans helped make the Jordan brand one of the most recognizable and valuable athletic brands in the world. Fans also demand apparel and accessories with the Jumpman logo. When people see my work, I want them to feel a sense of nostalgia, empowerment, coolness, and some sort of connection to Michael Jordan's legacy. 

Travis Scott X  Air Jordan 1 'Mocha'

Union LA X Air Jordan 1 'Storm Blue'

Air Jordan 1 'Chicago'

Air Jordan 4 'Military Black'

Off-White Air Jordan 1 'Chicago'

Off-White Air Jordan 1 'UNC'