Ouessam Benrguibi

Artist statement

My photography focuses on capturing the everyday lives of students on campus. Through portrait photography and short interviews, I aim to show real emotions, honest moments, and the personal stories that shape our community. Each image reflects a small part of who these students are and what their experiences at Å·ÖÞ±­ÍøͶ_Å·ÖÞ±­ÍâΧapp-Ͷע¹ÙÍø mean to them. I am interested in moments that are often overlooked and the stories people carry in their daily routines.

Talking with students is an important part of my process. These conversations help me understand their perspectives and represent them in a genuine way. Many students shared experiences about adjusting to college life, navigating cultural identity, handling academic pressure, and finding a sense of belonging. Listening to these stories allowed me to photograph students in a way that felt honest and respectful, rather than staged or performative.

At the beginning of this project, I was mainly focused on technical elements such as lighting and composition. I spent time experimenting with how lighting could change the mood of an image and affect how a viewer connects with the subject. Through critique, my focus shifted away from technical perfection and toward human connection. Being present, listening carefully, and allowing conversations to unfold naturally became just as important as the photograph itself.

I am continuing this project beyond campus and am still planning to interview people in Indonesia, focusing on their daily lives and personal routines. By asking simple questions about everyday experiences, I hope to explore how daily life shapes identity across different environments. My goal is to highlight the beauty in ordinary moments and encourage viewers to pause, reflect, and recognize shared humanity.