By Katie Miller
Hi, my name is Katie Miller, and I’m from Rochester, New York. This past March, I proudly graduated from Monroe Community College with an associate’s degree in photography, after two incredible years of study, growth, and creativity. During my time there, I had the privilege of studying under passionate mentors and inspiring professors who helped shape both my technical skills and artistic voice. Looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing about my journey, it has been formative, fulfilling, and deeply rewarding. Photography is more than just a craft for me; it’s a personal expression of how far I’ve come. Every image I create reflects a part of my story, and I take great pride in the work I’ve produced. Outside of photography, I love to bake and cook, it is one of my favorite ways to unwind and be creative in a different way. When I was growing up, my dad and I shared a weekly tradition: I could choose any recipe I wanted, and he would make it for me. Now that I live away from home, I have continued that tradition by experimenting in the kitchen several times a week and always seeking out new dishes to try.
This June, I have the pleasure of carrying out a research project in none other than Paris, France! The focus of my project surrounds how pictorialism has affected photography and exploring where we still use and see it in today’s art world. Pictorialism, in its start, was a style of photography that was aimed to look more like paintings, using soft focus and blurring to create more of a dreamy look. This included some manipulation of the photograph, such as hand coloring, smearing, or special processes such as using gum bichromate. This movement challenged traditional notions of photography and played a key role in elevating it to a respected fine art form.
Our schedule is jam-packed with incredible museums and historical sites, places I once only dreamed of seeing. One highlight is La Maison Européenne de la Photographie, a fascinating institution that focuses on emerging photographers and contemporary art. Visiting sites such as this will offer valuable insight into how pictorialism still resonates within modern photography and shapes the way we interpret the medium today.
Without a doubt, I’m absolutely thrilled about my upcoming trip. I’m especially eager to immerse myself in the streets of Paris, the very place where photography was born, and to walk the same paths that helped shape the history of the medium. One thing I am unsure about is navigating the language barrier, especially when ordering food, asking for directions, or reading signs and menus. I have been practicing common phrases as much as I possibly can to make sure I remain as respectful as possible while visiting another country. Nonetheless, while it is intimidating, I am excited to use what I have learned!
I plan to make the most of my time in Paris by fully immersing myself in every experience the city has to offer. Whenever I have free time, I want to explore as much as possible, from sampling a wide variety of local food to simply wandering the streets and admiring the breathtaking architecture that surrounds me. Paris is a city rich in history, culture, and artistic inspiration, and I’m determined to soak in every moment. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I intend to embrace it wholeheartedly, making the most of every second I’m there, whether it’s through discovering hidden gems, learning something new, or simply pausing to take in the beauty of it all. ☺
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