Photography of book showing first pages of textual content

A large-format zine capturing the essence of Marie Grob’s approaches in portrait photography focussing on authenticity, published in a limited edition of 50 copies.

Specifications

Scope
Concept, Design, Final drawing, Binding
Execution
Collaborative
  • Marie Grob
Context
Studies
  • FH Potsdam
Type
Client based
  • Marie Grob
Date
Aug / 2024

In my studies, I had the chance to explore experimental and narrative approaches to working with photographic material.

Through constant exchange and discussions, the courses goal was to develop a concept and story the photographers imagery resulting in a book. As material to work with, I chose the work of my sister, Marie Grob, growing from shoots that focus on mutual exploration and creativity with the people photographed. The process was formed by a constant exchange with the photographer, consulting on layout, image order and production of the book itself.

Close-up shot of the printed sheets.
© Marie Grob
A portrait photography of a woman featured in the book.
© Marie Grob

To reinforce the editorial character of the photographs, the project was realised as a large-format zine, emphasising the emotional resonance of the captured moments.

Close-up photography of the cover of the book.
© Marie Grob

By choosing high-quality papers and a minimalistic, raw production approach, the design supports the authenticity portrayed in the images, allowing each photograph to breathe and speak for itself. At the end of the book there is a resolving moment that explains the context in which the images were created, forming a contrast to the assumed complex, high-budget production process.

Photography of screenprinting process.
© Marie Grob
Photography of production process of book cover.
© Marie Grob

HP Indigo technology allowing an analogue representation of a high colour spectre.

The zine was produced in a closed format of 297.5mm x 400mm and printed digitally with HP Indigo technology allowing a high colour spectre. The book is held together by the format and texture of the paper itself permitting the viewer to use the format-filling photographs as high quality prints. The book is packaged in a custom card board wrapper with a serigraphy print on the front giving a glimpse about the idea of the photographs. Inside the packaging, an inlay shows behind the scenes images and individually addressed acknowledgements to the models, telling about the photo shooting atmosphere and connection between photographer and photographed subject.

Photography of production process showing printed sheets.
One of the photographies featured in the book.