My practice explores the themes of identity and gender representation through the use of photography, whilst addressing the subject of the male gaze. My pictures utilise an intimate, feminine aesthetic through soft lighting and draped sheets, in enclosed bedroom spaces. This aspect of the work is important as I explore the presentation of the female subject, and want to accentuate the theme of femininity. This works to sit within the context of what I feel is a lack of representation of women, by women, in art history. The work often makes reference to classic still-life painting, as well as the western European tradition of the ‘female nude’ in painting, and seeks to challenge representations of women as submissive images of perfection presented for male consumption. Small details such as leaving camera equipment visible, and using other mirrors to distort reflections of the body, intend to prevent the viewer from having full access to the female form, giving the subject power over the gaze set upon her.