Metráž is a low-threshold workshop that exists to provide disadvantaged women, such as those recovering from homelessness, intimate partner violence, poverty, and more, with support and opportunity. As I volunteered to help define their branding image, my approach to this project immediately took an unexpected turn, as some of the women were uncomfortable with their faces being photographed. While looking for ways to produce meaningful content without featuring the actual humans of Metráž, the limitation alerted me to what makes Metráž really special: the work that they produce, which is especially valuable considering the meaning it helped reintroduce into their employees’ lives.
About the photography
I chose a style for Metráž where the imagery focuses on what the workers are doing rather than who they are. The photos feature small moments, up-close details of Metráž products, and especially the workers’ hands as they stitch, fasten, and operate. The color treatment is soft and dreamy with neutral/pinkish tones, reflecting both the design of their clothing and the nature of the organization itself.
METRÁŽ ANGAŽOVANÁ
Metráž Angažovaná was a project about racism, xenophobia, sexism and social exclusion. It included an exhibition, a special clothing collection and also a book with texts written by the women working at Metráž about their experiences. I’ve supported this project not only by taking photographs, but also filming the opening event and later editing together some promo material from the recorded footage.