Amy McVaugh, 5.7.13, Images for Critique

I thoroughly enjoyed emulating Brian Ulrichs (http://notifbutwhen.com/) work. To study his various projects and contemplate the common meaning is very enlightening, no matter what your life circumstance might be. Rich or poor, Democrat, Republican or Liberal, we all bear a responsibility as citizens of this country to be responsible, involved individuals.

His philosophy post 9/11 of the United States government encouraging all citizens to be patriotic by increasing consumer spending is interesting. While there is truth that purchasing spurs the economy, we, all US citizens, also should not forget our own civic duty to question the world/tactics around us. While we can become drunk with the joy of indulgence, we also need to stop and think of exactly HOW we are spending and the effects it has not only us personally, but what type of example do we set for our younger generation? As a nation, are we really benefiting from thoughtless spending? Each person must weigh this in their own conscience, and set their own priorities.While considering the true value of our spending, one also needs to look around and consider the amount of business that have folded in recent years. Is mindless spending and enhanced security the only path to a reasonable answer? Are we all doing our part, or letting someone else make our decisions, allowing each of us to point a finger elsewhere and not bear responsibility for our actions?

I personally do have a connection with Homeland Security and found myself on more than one occasion defending certain policies that perhaps needed more thought instead of a conditioned answer. While as a nation we do indeed need certain additional screening measures in place, (to include laws, policies and security measures), it is also important to always thoroughly question policies before they are instituted in order to protect the privileged freedoms we enjoy in the United States. This process should include all citizens from all walks of life.
At first, I was worried about finding subject matter appropriate to emulate Mr. Ulrich. Truthfully, it  became simple as I thought more and more about the various aspects he presented and ultimately ended up with a hard decision as to which images to use. I chose to use a sampling of images found in everyday life, only this time I reflected on each image and applied the significance of their underlying meaning to my own life.
I also wanted to say that I very much enjoyed basic photography. Learning to take better photos and speaking through those images has been very enriching.  I know I'll enjoy the time off, but I do wish this class wasn't over.