*Mom Sitting on Couch,* 2002 Color Photograph. © Tiffany J. Sutton

Text and Images by Tiffany J. Sutton

Interview by Ora Heard

How did your series A Woman Named Vera come to be?

While seeking my BFA in Photography at Washington University in St. Louis, I photographed my parents for my thesis. The series began so simply. It was the visual record of their marriage and my Mom as a primary caregiver to my Dad. I thought the project would end when he passed on, but the series has continued with me and my Mom.

Were there any challenges that came up when creating these images?

The primary challenge was buying enough 120mm film to capture their daily routine. My relationship with my parents was great; they didn’t mind that I was photographing them day and night.

*My Parents Kissing,* 2002 Color Photograph. © Tiffany J. Sutton

Can you tell us a bit about the installation aspect of this project?

This project was printed on 8’x8’ vinyl and hung between Pyramid Hill Museum and Sculpture Park trees. The hues and deep saturations of the images blended well with the autumn colors of the park. It was the voyeuristic aspect of looking into an interior that interested me the most. The guests of the park could have a look inside of our home and feel connected to us through nature.

*Scratching Heads*, 2002 Color Photograph. © Tiffany J. Sutton

Describe your creative process in one word.

Critiques.

*Mom and Her First Santa*, 2002 Color Photograph. © Tiffany J. Sutton

What inspires you to pursue image-making?

Taking photos is my love language. If I take your picture, I want you to be in my circle.

*Mom on the Patio*, 2002 Color Photograph. © Tiffany J. Sutton

What was the last book you read or film you saw that inspired you?

The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin

*Mom Looking at Me,* 2002 Color Photograph. © Tiffany J. Sutton

What advice would you give to people just starting in photography?

Learn these formal principles of design. (BALANCE, CONTRAST, EMPHASIS, PROPORTION, REPETITION, RHYTHM, PATTERN, SPACE, MOVEMENT, HARMONY, VARIETY, AND UNITY.) After mastering these, you’ll always compose a fantastic image.