This month, we spotlight Beth Stahn, a conceptual portrait artist whose captivating imagery explores the intricate themes of identity, emotion, and motherhood. Based in Minnesota, Stahn's striking photography masterfully navigates the complexities of motherhood, challenging societal perceptions while inviting viewers to reflect on their own experiences. Stahn uses a fog machine to add an ethereal quality that enhances the mood and depth of her portraits, blurring the lines between reality and imagination. She will also share valuable tips on using similar techniques in our own photography to create impactful visual metaphors.
What’s the idea behind this shoot?
I wanted to emphasize and call attention to a woman's loss of identity in motherhood. I think it goes without saying that mothers love their children unconditionally, but more often than not, in the throes of child-rearing, we can lose ourselves and feel like we are only just mothers and nothing else. A lot of the time, we feel forgotten by others, but also by ourselves. I wanted to add the smoke bubbles to a layer of surrealism, symbolizing internal chaos and struggle.
What’s your go-to settings on the SmokeNINJA PRO?
I usually go with the steam setting paired with the bubble nozzle and fan.
What’s your dream shoot with the SmokeNINJA PRO fog machine?
I’m looking forward to using the SmokeNINJA PRO for some upcoming cinematic shoots, including a narrative photography project in the works.
What advice would you give to other creators looking to incorporate smoke effects into their work?
Incorporating smoke to enhance creativity, mood, and atmosphere can help you elevate your work dramatically. Using smoke and bubbles can add a sense of surrealism and mystery to your work.
About the Creator
Beth Stahn is a Minnesota-based conceptual portrait artist, wife, and mother of six. Her work explores identity, emotion, and storytelling through staged, symbolic imagery, often using herself and her children as subjects.A lifelong artist, Beth’s early love of drawing and photography was reignited by motherhood, evolving into a powerful means of self-expression. Her portraits blur the line between reality and imagination, turning personal experiences into visual metaphors that invite reflection and connection.
