Words, Meanings and Photography

Ever thought about what a particular word means or what comes to mind when someone utters a word such as trustworthy, just, important or dependable? Many words carry a meaning that can be used to show a state of being, a feeling, an emotion.

This photographic project is based on taking a word and intends to portray what the feelings or emotions that a particular word's connotations. Dependable is such a word. Ever stopped and really thought what this word really means, what it takes to be declared a dependable person?

The general definition of the word dependable is: someone or something that is capable of being dependent upon; worthy of trust. People who are dependable keep their promises, are always consistent, punctual, are trust worthy, are responsible, can be counted on to do something when he or she says that it will be done.

With this definition in hand, one can start to look for images that are generally accepted as true representations of the word or even its synonyms.

So the next step would be to find subjects that carry the attributes of the word. A strong structure, such as a sturdy bridge can be associated with dependability. Take images that reinforce the structural integrity of the bridge. A guide dog can be thought as dependable for guiding its master to safety. Take images which show the animal doing its job and the apparent look of calm and trust of its owner. A well made car is also an image of dependability and photos showing its powerful well made engine can be used to demonstrate dependability. A father, a mother holding its child, cooking, cuddling etc, are also representations not only of love, family values and relationships, but also of dependability. Take images that show an interaction between parent and sibling. A strong structure meant to protect a city from nature's fury, such as a sea wall meant to protect the town from a hurricane, can be designated as a dependable structure. Take images that represent its integrity and function. An image of a hard working individual doing a difficult job is surely to be categorized as dependable. Shoot images that show the job being performed and the individual performing it.

So what do you do with such a project. Many inspirational posters usually carry an image that seems to match an emotion or a meaning that can be derived from a word which is normally found at the bottom of such posters.

The same is equally evident in many inspirational greeting cards. Many companies will also use images to which they can attribute a word that in their minds signify what the company is all about or what their products represents. By far the largest user of inspirational words, with the word dependable amongst the strongest contenders, is the product and service industry. And many of these brands are known for their dependability and have tried very hard to keep their brands associated with it. Remember the Maytag motto? This is something to keep in mind if one decides to take on a project such as this one.