Contemporary art is all about pushing boundaries, and this project does just that by asking students to explore identity, culture, family, and society through a single image made of three different “selves.” Why three? Well, think of it as a miniseries on one canvas: each “you” in the photo can reveal something different, whether it’s a different side of your personality or different reactions to the same scenario. By combining multiple images of the same person, students can reflect on who they are and the world around them in a truly unique way.
Adia A., Self-Reflection, grade eleven.Benathan M. II, untitled, grade eleven.Keyera S. C., untitled, grade twelve.Malachi G., Studio Setup, grade twelve.Ainsley F., Triple-Take, grade eleven.
On any given day in my classroom, there always seems to be an explosion of controlled chaos. I have students asking for input on a project, someone needing permission to use the bathroom, batteries that need to be replaced, instructions that need to be repeated, spills left from last period, an email to a parent that still needs to be sent, all while trying to develop a relationship with each student. The idea of creating a clone of myself has crossed my mind.
With this lesson in composite photography, students will explore the idea of cloning and capturing contemporary themes in one photograph. Welcome to Triple-Take, where students channel contemporary themes into a photo composite that’s part self-portrait, part cultural commentary, and all digital magic. Let’s dive into how students can create a story with one background, three photos, and some serious editing skills.
What’s Composite Photography Got to Do with Contemporary Art?
Contemporary art is all about pushing boundaries, and this project does just that by asking students to explore identity, culture, family, and society through a single image made of three different “selves.” Why three? Well, think of it as a miniseries on one canvas: each “you” in the photo can reveal something different, whether it’s a different side of your personality or different reactions to the same scenario. By combining multiple images of the same person, students can reflect on who they are and the world around them in a truly unique way.
How exactly can three versions of you in one frame convey, say, personal identity or community? Each “self” can represent a different angle of your personality, nationality, or role in your community. Imagine standing tall in one pose, then casually sitting down in another, and maybe even leaning back and laughing in a third. Each pose will say something different about your inner and outer world.
From Concept to Direction
Before the camera clicks, it’s important to plan. Students start by outlining the mood and meaning of their project. Will they explore how they feel at home versus at school or maybe a clash between two cultural identities? Students should consider what colors and outfits might enhance their theme. This planning phase—complete with a mood board of colors, styles, and poses—is crucial for visualizing the final piece.
Lights, Camera, Stay Still
Now comes the fun part. It’s time to set up the camera on a tripod and keep that background steady. This project hinges on each shot aligning perfectly with the others—no rogue backgrounds or wobbly cameras allowed. Students should choose a simple background that doesn’t steal the show but complements it.
And now the directions for the model: Students position themselves in three distinct poses. They could be sitting, standing, and lying down, for example, or maybe expressing three different moods—contemplative, cheerful, and rebellious. Whatever they choose, these three selves should not overlap.
Combining You, You, and You
In Photoshop, students import each image into one project, creating a single composition with multiple layers. Using the Quick Selection tool or Lasso tool, they mask out each pose and arrange them without overlapping. This step may take patience—and zooming in (a lot)—but clean selections make all the difference for a professional look.
It’s not just about slapping these images together. With Layer Masks, Blending Options, and Adjustment Layers, students should tweak each layer’s exposure, contrast, and color balance to ensure a seamless composition. They can refine their photos by adding shadows, subtle opacity changes, and blending effects that make each pose look like it belongs.
Class Critique
Students use the TAG critique method (tell me something you like, ask a question, and give a suggestion) and have a short window of time to revisit their work before submitting their final projects.
Why Composite Photography Works for Contemporary Art
Triple-Take isn’t just a tech trick; it’s a form of visual storytelling, ideal for exploring contemporary art themes. Students aren’t just creating photos; they’re making statements. Contemporary art doesn’t shy away from the bold, the personal, or the strange.
So, next time you find yourself pondering your place in the world (or trying to show your students you can’t do everything, despite being the boss you are!), think about a Triple-Take lesson. Who knows? You might discover something new about yourself—or at least get really good at Photoshop!
Loria Crews is an art teacher at Brookwood High School in Snellville, Georgia. Loria.Crews@gcpsk12.org
National Standard
Presenting: Convey meaning through the presentation of artistic work.
This issue focuses on various interpretations of contemporary art and what art means for students today. Young students investigate their connection to the natural world and print with leaves, elementary students combine elements from historical and contemporary artworks to create a new work of art, middle-school students explore the large-scale sculptures of Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen, high-school students channel contemporary themes into a self-portrait photo composite, and more.
