OVERVIEW

Not Fitting In explores the feeling of being part of a family without quite belonging. Each image places a person among fantastical relatives, turning the familiar family portrait into a visual expression of emotional distance. Whether that disconnect comes from beliefs, gender, politics or simply a different outlook on life, the images reflect the tension between staying true to yourself and wanting to feel at home within your own family.

SERVICES

Ideation
Creative development (AI-assisted)
Production
Studio photography
CGI
Creative retouching

DELIVERABLES

All Print | Web Site / Digital

APPROACH

I wanted the images to carry the familiarity of a family portrait and the quiet discomfort of feeling out of place. AI became an early sketchbook, allowing me to explore characters, compositions and atmosphere quickly, shaping the visual story before moving into production.

With the creative direction established, a character artist hand-sculpted the creatures in 3D, developing their individual personalities through form, texture and intricate detail. Alongside this, I developed styling references for the 3D environment artist, creating believable domestic spaces that would make these unusual families feel at home.

Casting and wardrobe were guided by the narrative, with the human subject providing the emotional centre of each image. I photographed the talent in my London studio, then brought the photography and CGI together through compositing, retouching and colour grading. Every element needed to feel part of the same world, allowing that subtle sense of not belonging to come through.