"People of Mansfield" is special photography project by Sandra Lee Photography that celebrates the amazing people who make this town/region an incredible place to live, visit, work, and raise a family. 

The aim of the project is to photograph, as 'Environmental Portraits', 52 people in 52 weeks, culminating (if all goes to plan) in an exhibition and book in late 2025.  Wow, that's some challenge I've set myself!  But for anyone who knows me well, knows I thrive on a challenge - the first in Mansfield was the Mansfield Farm Project, followed by the Mini Farmers Book Project.  "People of Mansfield" however takes projects to the next level. 

Each portrait will require an understanding of the subject, a plan for the shoot - taking into account the location, what to include and remove from the environment, clothing, the pose, lighting and expression to best convey something about the subject - the shoot itself, image selection and editing, printing and exhibiting.  In addition a short written piece is to accompany each subject.

Note: Environmental portraits will be taken of individuals - the project is not designed for groups of people (although this could make another very interesting project) or couples. While some people nominated will be involved in businesses the project is also not designed as a business marketing/promotion opportunity. 

What is an Environmental Portrait?

The subject is photographed in an environment that communicates something about who they are, what they do or what their interests are.  They are shot on location (not in the studio) and choosing the environment and what items are included in the image are crucial to conveying the subjects story. 

Think artist, athlete, farmer, cattleman, tradesperson, furniture maker, musician, collector (cars, instruments), old style barber, tourist operator, teacher, health care worker, forestry, foster carer, volunteer, person of faith, emergency services worker, wine maker, mechanic - the list is endless.  

Faces with character and people who have a lifetime of stories to tell make fantastic subject but we are not limiting this project to just one "type" of person.  The idea is to capture a diverse range of people from different cultures, backgrounds, ages, abilities and with different interests, experiences and stories.

Below are a few examples of environmental portraits I have taken of some wonderful locals. Yes - men can make great subjects for these types of portraits but I am very much looking for a diverse range of subjects.

Q. Who is eligible? 

A. Any person living or working within the Shire of Mansfield. (U18 require parental permission)

Q. My mum/dad/sister/cousin etc would make a great subject, can I nominate him/her?

A. Yes absolutely - we just need to make sure they on board with the project

Q. How do you choose who will be photographed?

A. The aim of the project is to capture a diverse range of subjects who add to the fabric of this community. Therefore, we need to be mindful of not having too many people in a particular industry, age group, cultural group etc. The story of the subject will also be taken into consideration.

Q. How much does it cost?

A. There is no cost to be photographed for inclusion in the project. 

Q. Can we purchase the exhibited print?

A. Prints displayed at the exhibition will be available for purchase. 

Q. Can we buy the digital file?

A. Digital files captured as part of this project will not be made available for purchase.  You will however have the opportunity to view and purchase products (prints, etc) of photos taken during the session (excluding the image chosen for the exhibition/book - this will remain secret until the exhibition).  Please note: the session is primarily to create ONE environmental portrait of the subject. As such we do not guarantee any specific number of photos from the session.

Q. I wasn't selected for the project. Can I still be photographed by Sandra Lee Photography?

A. Yes we would love to be able to create an environmental portrait for you. Please send us an email for more information.

Q. I want to be part of the project but don't want to be included in the book - is that ok?

A. A condition of the project is that your image and story is included in the book/exhibition but you are welcome to book a portrait session with Sandra outside the project

Q. My home/shed is old and untidy - do we still qualify?

A. Old buildings have character and stories of their own.  Absolutely we would love to be able to photograph in these environments.

Q. I'd love to be involved but don't know where the photo should be taken or what I should wear.

A. Part of the process is to understand each subject and what environment/clothing will best tell your story. We will guide you though this part and other parts of the process.