Michelle Alpert Photo & Design
Social Documentary Photography
Aquarium Series
I photographed an in-depth exploratory series which showcases the atmosphere of the Aquarium. I explored the physical space of the National Aquarium in Baltimore and most especially concentrated on the interaction of the guests with the animals. I explored the relationships in which people interact with the animals, the physical space, and each other.
 Dolphin Watchers |  Audience |  Over-the-Ball |
|---|---|---|
 Dolphin Trainer |  High Jump |  Surreal Hang |
 Big Jump |  Dolphin Shirt |  Swim By |
 Silhouette |  Whale Skeleton |  Bubbles |
 Connection |  Neon Thresher |  Curiosity |
 Tri-Level View |  Surrounded |  Reach Out |
 Scuba Ray |  Aquarium Shop |  Shark Ramp |
 Holding Hands |  Over the Rail |  Empty Bench |
 Wonderment |  Escalator Ride |
SCARS Series
I have a scar on my shoulder which I personally used to be self-conscious of and I decided to explore the idea of what people think of their own scars.
Every scar has a story behind it, and every person has a different relationship with or thoughts on their scar. Based on how and when they got it, this can be a positive or negative outlook, and the wide array of possible feelings is what intrigued me to explore this concept photographically.
I photographed the portraits to be close-up on the scar, and purposely chose not to reveal the person's face. Instead, to showcase their personality and feelings about their scar, I asked each person to write the story of how they got the scar. I asked them to elaborate on how they feel about living with the daily reminder on their body of the incident. The juxtaposition of their hand-written story with their portrait creates a unique way of understanding each person.
Through the process of creating this series, I learned to appreciate and be proud of my scar, rather than be self-conscious.
 Jessy |  Coach Venuti |  Brett |
|---|---|---|
 Meg |  Michelle |  Caitlin |
 Tom |
Animal Rescue Series
Animal Rescue, Inc. is a non-profit, amazing organization located right on the MD/PA border. They granted me access to explore and document their facility. They are a no-kill shelter with extensive outdoor and indoor facilities. There are wonderful volunteers working there who take care of, nurse, play with and love all of the animals. They are all passionate and educated on animal caretaking. I would highly recommend to adopt your next pet from here!
You can checkout their website HERE.
 Animal RescueThis is the front gate area. |  Outdoor AreaThe facility has wonderful outdoor areas for care-giving and playing with the animals. Mostly the larger dogs are out here, and the smaller dogs and cats are inside. |  Fooooood!This dog had been rescued from a Puppy Mill where she had been forced to have many litters of puppies. She was emaciated and just recently came to the rescue; they were working on nursing her back to health. |
|---|---|---|
 That's my tail! |  Play Ball! |  Kisses |
 Looking out the door |  Hanging Around |  She Loves Me |
 Take Me Home! |  Indoor SanctuaryThe indoor facilities are for smaller dogs and cats. There is even a special space for cats who are sick to get better. There are a few designated "cat rooms" throughout the building. |  Yawns are contagious |
 Take my portrait! |  Kitty Window |  Loungin' |
 Hugs & Love |  Sticking Together |  Party! |
 Gangster KittyThis cat gave me a great, long stare that just seemed so cool, calm and collected = gangster. |
Baltimore City Series
Baltimore City is a unique urban atmosphere, where 1 or 2 blocks can make a huge difference in the neighborhood. There are poor neighborhoods right next to affluent ones; it is a city where there are pockets of different areas. Certain streets have particular atmospheres and reputations, and poverty is abundant in many areas. Often there may be abandoned buildings right next to bustling retail spots.
I decided to take time to explore a specific area of the city which I am comfortable and familiar with: the route I would take from Towson to MICA while commuting for classes.The area included Greenmount Ave, Barclay St. and North Ave. This was just a general exploration and documentation of the area, to showcase how I view the city. There was an attempt to reflect on myself and record how I was perceived as an "outsider," despite personally feeling comfortable & familiar in the area, having driven through every day as well as often hanging out at a local music venue which is in the basement of a row home in the area.
 Bike BoyThis guy stared at me as he rode by. He seemed very confused as to why I was taking pictures. |  LiquorsThis lady was trying to cross the street. |  Shopping CartThis (seemingly) homeless man was looking for things on the street to add to his shopping cart. |
|---|---|---|
 PuppiesThese guys were hanging out and let me photograph their puppies. |  PoliceThe police constantly patrol this area. |  One WayHanging out on the stoop. |
 Valentine's Day on GreenmountOutside of a store on Greenmount Ave. before Valentine's Day. The large signage area is left unused and old. |  Greenmount & 34thKids hanging out after school. |  CrutchesWalking to the bus stop. |
 Bus StopWaiting in the cold at the bus stop. |