Essaydi’s Photographic Technique

Patricia Drummond

This essay will critically analyze the technical aspects of Lalla Essaydi’s photographs, through the identification of the photographic processes and elements incorporated in the work. It will discuss how the technical decisions made by the artist are relevant to the conceptual aspects of the work and provide an introduction to, and basic explanation of, the technical elements and processes used by Essaydi, including the use of large format photography, color film, Color Services, LLC, and her emulation of the Polaroid. The significance of Essaydi’s photographic choices make the work what it is. Through this critical analysis a greater understanding of not only the work but also the artist’s intent may be gained.