Why do I photograph Lego minifigures? That’s a question I often get when I’m selling my work in person.
What's my connection?
Considering the wide range of choices available to a toy photographer, this is a great question. The short answer is that they’re fun and they don’t take themselves seriously.
In a world that prioritizes production over relaxation, fun is in short supply. As a recovering workaholic I know all too well the pressures of doing too much. I would say ‘yes’ to everything. I was under the impression that a full plate was a badge of honor.
I was a very busy person that soon lost my sense of humor.
LEGO minifigures remind me to not take myself too seriously and to embrace my version of joy.
Why so serious?
If you’re not familiar with the modern Lego minifigure let me assure you, there’s a minifigure for any person you can think of. And if I still can’t find the perfect subject, I can create any silly combination from the many spare parts I have.
Which means if I can think of it, I can create it.
Unlike with action figures (which dominate the toy photography world) it’s hard to take these brightly colored bits of plastic too seriously. Action figures lend themselves to realistic stories because they’re often modeled on specific actors, have sculpted details with multiple points of articulation. Some of the more elaborate figures even come with multiple sets of hands and faces. They can be incredibly lifelike and beautiful.
While the minifigures have only seven points of articulation, come in bright colors with simplistic faces. They feel like cartoons not people. How can I take them (or me) seriously?
Straight back to childhood
I never played with Lego as a kid. I came to the world of the plastic brick late in life. Unlike many toy photographers I’m not revisiting my childhood. For me, my photographs are a way for me to create a childhood that never was.
I’m giving my inner child the experiences she never had. So when I’m asked where my ideas come from I can honestly say that I have a healthy relationship with my inner child.
Together we have the opportunity to approach life with curiosity, less judgement and a silliness that I lost when I moved into the ‘serious’ world of adults.
My minifigures help me tell the terribly unserious stories I want to tell.
Play more | work less
I’m glad that I discovered Lego minifigures late in life. They appeared just when I needed them most. They’re a consistent reminder to play, to be silly, to not take anything too seriously.
I love their simple yet expressive faces and their beautifully designs. They’re my perfect little muses.
Over the years I’ve curated a collection of minifigures that’s a never ending source of inspiration and joy. When I’m feeling tired, stressed or I simply need an escape from the usual adult worries, I know where to turn.
They never let me take myself too seriously.
“I tell you, we are here on Earth to fart around, and don’t let anybody tell you differently.”
– Kurt Vonnegut
2 Responses
That Vonnegut guy is onto something.
I agree! He has many great quotes, but this is my favorite. 😀